NASCAR Champion Kyle Larson Contemplates Formula 1 Involvement

NASCAR Cup Series champion, Kyle Larson, has sparked intriguing discussions about his potential involvement with Formula 1. During a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, the driver shared his thoughts on the allure of F1 for its fans and expressed interest in exploring opportunities within the series.

A Divergent Background

With a background rooted in dirt track racing and stock cars, Kyle Larson’s trajectory deviates from the conventional pathway to Formula 1, which typically involves progression from karting to Formula 3 and Formula 2. However, this doesn’t diminish his potential for success in such a series.

Despite his unconventional background, Larson has expressed admiration for the grandeur of F1 events, particularly the celebrities, engineering, and prestige associated with the sport.

A Window of Opportunity

In September 2024, a potential opportunity presented itself through discussions with McLaren Racing CEO, Zak Brown. Brown revealed that they had been discussing Larson’s involvement in F1, acknowledging his desire to participate during the off-season when both series schedules permit.

Precedents for such crossovers have been set, as evidenced by Jimmie Johnson and Fernando Alonso’s collaboration with Hendrick Motorsports in Bahrain in 2018. Brown expressed his enthusiasm for the prospect of seeing Larson in an F1 car, hinting at a potential future collaboration.

Despite his deep-rooted love for American motorsport, Larson has not ruled out the possibility of exploring opportunities within Formula 1 should they arise.