“We’re always pushing to win every race”: Kyle Larson reveals his unwavering approach in NASCAR

Former NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson delved into the relentless mindset that has propelled him to the pinnacle of the sport. His comments came after he claimed his third win of the season in Sonoma last weekend.

Kyle Larson's fortune turned on it's head after the 31-year-old driver made his move to Hendrick Motorsports in the 2021 season. The Elk Grove native, following his season-long suspension in 2020, went on to clinch his maiden Cup Series title in his first season with HMS, establishing his legacy as one of the faces of the sport.

Coming off a runner-up finish in the last campaign, Larson took his career to new heights in 2024, making his IndyCar debut at the iconic Indianapolis 500 race. The No. 5 Chevrolet driver has claimed three wins so far this season, with the latest one coming at Sonoma Raceway.

In a conversation with Racing America after his latest victory, Larson detailed the mindset that fuels his pursuit of excellence. He said:

"We're always pushing to win every race. I don't approach a race any differently than I would in the playoffs. You try to run up front all race long, and you maximize your day, getting stage points and putting yourself in position to win." (2:17)

Larson emphasized the importance of consistency and preparation. He added:

"I think if you can stay in that mindset too, then you're ready for when the playoffs starts. I don't approach anything differently and I don't know if we approach anything differently on the car setup stuff."

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Kyle Larson compares his championship-winning season to 2024

With 10 wins, Larson etched his name in the history books as he led Hendrick Motorsports to it's second successive Cup crown in 2021.

The Elk Grove native has continued his pursuit for his second Cup Series title in 2024. The campaign has seen the No. 5 Chevrolet driver has secure three wins, with the latest triumph at Sonoma Raceway highlighting his prowess.

This victory, Larson’s second at his home track located just 80 miles from his hometown of Elk Grove, marked his fifth career win on a road course. It also propelled him to the top of the current series standings

Reflecting on his championship-winning season in 2021 and comparing it to his current campaign, Kyle Larson told SiriusXM NASCAR Radio:

"We’ve been really strong, really consistent and executing very well. Honestly, I know 2021 was amazing but I would say this year seems even better than that year because we’re like executing really good. As a team, we haven’t really been making mistakes this year."

Looking ahead, Kyle Larson has now set his sights on NASCAR Cup Series’ debut at Iowa Speedway this weekend. The 7/8th mile-long track recently underwent a partial repave.