For the first time since 1976, NASCAR will have a representation in the prestigious 24 hours of Le Mans. It was recently announced that Hendrick Motorsports will be fielding a specially produced Camaro Next Gen stock car in the 2023 edition of the endurance race. This was something that incited an awesome idea from the former Hendrick driver, Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Reacting to a report of the Hendrick-Le Mans news, Dale Jr. wrote, “Awesome idea. Can’t wait to see it. Only a matter of time before there’s an entire “Next Gen” class at the Daytona 24. (Another awesome idea)”

The current Hendrick driver and defending Cup champion Kyle Larson announced his availability for the vacancy. Larson, who is notorious for his ‘all-I-want-is-to-race’ attitude, tweeted, “Need a driver?!”

Could Kyle Larson and Dale Earnhardt Jr take part in the 24 hrs of Le Mans?

During a pre-season test of the Next Gen car at the Daytona International Speedway, Dale Earnhardt Jr was asked whether he’d consider making a sensational return out of retirement.

To this, the NASCAR Hall of Famer made things pretty clear – “I’m old.” 

“I’m done taking risks,” he added.

So it’s pretty unlikely that even if he is approached by his former team, Dale Earnhardt Jr wouldn’t be a part of the driving team in France next year.

This leads us to another former driver, Jimmie Johnson, who could be considered as one of the drivers for the endurance race. Not only is the seven-time Cup champion still kicking it in the IndyCar, but he also took part in the 24 hours of Daytona quite recently.

Of course, there’s no reason why Kyle Larson wouldn’t be a top pick for the job, all things considered.

All in all, only time will tell which drivers Hendrick decides to go with to what certainly is, a big leap for NASCAR.

Also Read: “I Obviously Don’t Know My Own Strength” – Dale Earnhardt Jr Reveals an Embarrassing Incident With a Hall of Fame Gift