Copy of Countdown to Daytona 2026 - 2 Days

By Adam Carabine

Counting down the final 30 days to the 2026 Daytona 500, we are looking at last year's Top 30 drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series. Today's driver: Kyle Larson

Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images

No. 5 Car – Hendrick Motorsports

2025 Stats

Standings	1st
Wins	3
Points	5,034
Stage Points	297
Stage Wins	10
Laps Led	1,126
Lead Lap Finishes	30
Average Finish	13.2
DNFs	2
Races since last win	24

What Does Success Look Like in 2026?

Kyle Larson is widely seen as one of the most talented drivers in the world, and with good reason.  He seems to be successful in whatever type of moving vehicle he jumps into.  Because of that, the expectations are higher, and anything other than winning the championship again this year would be seen as a letdown.

Best-Case Scenario in 2026?

Larson wins multiple races and stays consistent enough to win the Championship.  He’s also pretty darn good at Homestead, the final track on the schedule.

Most Likely Outcome in 2026?

I think sometimes Larson gets bored out on the track because his skill level is so high.  Often it seems like some of his slip-ups are unforced human errors.  I think Larson wins a few this year, but comes up short of the championship.

Bold Prediction?

The Indy 500 has perfect weather, and Larson misses out on another chance at the double, ahead of the Coca-Cola 600.  (He will win the 600 because he’s mad).