Two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson has secured a contract extension with Hendrick Motorsports through the 2031 season, ensuring his partnership with the team will continue for at least five more years. This announcement came ahead of the 2026 season, as confirmed by NASCAR analyst Bob Pockrass, who also revealed that Larson’s crew chief, Cliff Daniels, has similarly agreed to a multi-year deal.
Since joining Hendrick Motorsports in 2021, Larson has formed a highly effective alliance with his crew chief Daniels. The duo has consistently delivered strong results, prompting the team to extend both their contracts. Pockrass highlighted that Larson, who drives the #5 Chevy, will remain with HMS well beyond the expiration of his previous contract at the end of the current season.
The analyst noted,
“Kyle Larson isn’t going anywhere. The two-time Cup champion has signed a contract extension through 2031 to remain at Hendrick Motorsports (his contract was up after this season). Cliff Daniels has signed up for multiple additional years. @NASCARONFOX”
– Bob Pockrass, NASCAR Analyst
Larson Reflects on the New Long-Term Agreement
Following the contract announcement, Kyle Larson expressed his gratitude and optimism for the future in a team statement. He praised the Hendrick Motorsports organization and acknowledged the support from team owner Rick Hendrick and general manager Jeff Benscoter.
Larson said,
“I’m incredibly grateful to continue my career with Hendrick Motorsports and HendrickCars.com. This team, this organization, and this family have given me everything I need to compete at the highest level. We’ve accomplished a lot together, but I truly believe the best is still ahead. I’m grateful to Mr. Hendrick and JB for believing in me, and I’m excited to keep chasing wins and championships with Cliff and the 5 team for many more years.”
– Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports driver
The driver joined HMS in 2021 and won his first Cup Series championship in his rookie year with the team. Over 179 starts with Hendrick Motorsports, Larson has captured 26 victories, 78 top-five finishes, 103 top-ten finishes, and 14 pole positions. His impressive performance culminated in a second championship title during the 2025 season.
Memorable Moment: Larson’s Encounter with Denny Hamlin at Phoenix Raceway
In 2025, Kyle Larson opened up about a poignant exchange with Joe Gibbs Racing driver Denny Hamlin after the Championship 4 race at Phoenix Raceway. Hamlin had commanded the season and championship race but lost his chance at his first Cup Series title when Larson passed him during a late four-tire pit stop.
Despite the disappointment, Hamlin approached Larson to congratulate him on the victory, creating a moment that left a lasting impression on the Hendrick Motorsports driver. Larson recalled the encounter, saying,
“So we got to talk for a minute. Yeah, it was tough stuff. You could see the disappointment and pain in his face. Yeah, just, you know, probably a moment that I won’t an interaction I’ll never forget. You know, I still feel, I think we all do, feel bad for how it went down. But yeah, that’s why it’s been kind of awkward. Like, I’m super happy, but then there’s also part of this, like I’m equally as bummed for him and everybody else too.”
– Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports driver
During the 2025 season, Larson earned three wins, 22 top-ten finishes, 15 top-five finishes, and one pole position in 36 races, while leading 1,106 laps and averaging a starting position of 11.38.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Success with Hendrick Motorsports
Kyle Larson’s extended agreement with Hendrick Motorsports reinforces the team’s commitment to stability and long-term competitiveness in the NASCAR Cup Series. With Larson and Daniels locked in for many seasons, Hendrick Motorsports aims to build on their recent achievements and continue contending for victories and championships.
This contract extension not only secures a key driver and crew chief duo but also signifies confidence in the driver’s ability to maintain peak performance. Fans and analysts will watch closely as Larson pursues further success in the coming years, shaping both his legacy and the future of Hendrick Motorsports in NASCAR’s top tier.
Kyle Larson isn't going anywhere. The two-time Cup champion has signed a contract extension through 2031 to remain at Hendrick Motorsports (his contract was up after this season). Cliff Daniels has signed up for multiple additional years. @NASCARONFOX
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) February 12, 2026
