“Know What’s Expected of Me” – Kyle Larson on his Deal with Hendrick Motorsports for 2021 NASCAR Season

After falling out of favor with NASCAR earlier this year, Kyle Larson is officially back in action. To be precise, the driver will be racing for the Hendrick Motorsports team. However, the team is set to bring the #5 back for Larson, in place of the #88.

There were numerous rumors linking him to the team, especially with Jimmie Johnson’s departure. Finally, those rumors have been put to rest, as Larson is with Hendrick Motorsports, but not succeeding Johnson. That honor went to Alex Bowman, with the announcement coming earlier this year.

In a statement, team owner Rick Hendrick said, “Kyle is unquestionably one of the most talented race car drivers in the world. He has championship-level ability and will be a significant addition to our on-track program.

“More importantly, I have full confidence that he understands our expectations. And will be a tremendous ambassador for our team, our partners and NASCAR.”

According to Hendrick, they were in constant up until the announcement. He has placed a lot of faith in the 28-year-old and believes that he can be a champion.

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Kyle Larson is excited about this new chapter in his NASCAR story

Larson knows that Hendrick Motorsports is a top tier team and has high expectations. On a personal note, he insisted that his target is to win races, efficiently play the team game, and grow as a racer.

“I know what’s expected of me and what I expect of myself, on and off the track,” Larson said.

It is worth noting that this will be the first time that the #88 car will not be present on the NASCAR grid since 2008. Otherwise, it was a regular fixture on the Hendrick Motorsports roster since 1984. Interestingly, Rick Hendrick originally wanted to field the #5 car when he first founded the team in 1984.

“I’m excited about our roster of young talent,” Hendrick said. “We have a team that is built to win races and compete for championships for years to come.”

With Larson’s inclusion, he completes the Hendrick Motorsports 2021 line-up. He joins the likes of Chase Elliott, William Byron, and Alex Bowman for the coming season.

For the moment, Larson has to wait until the 2020 season concludes before he can think about stepping in the car. The Hendrick Motorsports team is also focused on the current campaign. There are just three races left in the current season before NASCAR can crown a champion.