When NASCAR expanded its “Greatest Drivers” list from 50 to 75 names in 2023 to celebrate its 75th anniversary, it was a momentous occasion for the sport and its fans. However, the inclusion of current era drivers like Kyle Larson on the list sparked a heated debate that has yet to die down even two years later. Fans and insiders alike have been split on whether Larson has truly earned a spot among the greatest drivers in NASCAR history. But amidst all the controversy, one veteran driver has stepped forward to offer a brutal reality check to those who doubt Larson’s place on the list.
Kevin Harvick, a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience in NASCAR, recently spoke out about the heated debate surrounding Larson’s inclusion on the “Greatest Drivers” list. In an interview with ESPN, Harvick made it clear that he believes Larson has already earned his spot among the greats, despite his relatively short career in the sport.
Harvick’s words carry a lot of weight in the NASCAR community, as he is not only a highly respected driver but also a former champion. He has seen the evolution of the sport and has raced against some of the greatest drivers in NASCAR history. So when he speaks, people listen.
In the interview, Harvick pointed out that Larson’s statistics speak for themselves. In just six full seasons in the Cup Series, Larson has already amassed six wins, 60 top-five finishes, and 101 top-ten finishes. He has also qualified for the playoffs in all six of those seasons and has finished in the top ten in the championship standings four times. These are impressive numbers for any driver, let alone one who is only 29 years old.
But it’s not just about the numbers for Harvick. He also highlighted Larson’s natural talent and his ability to adapt to different tracks and racing styles. Larson has proven himself on a variety of tracks, from short tracks to superspeedways, and has shown that he can compete with the best of the best. This is a testament to his skill and potential as a driver.
Harvick also addressed the argument that Larson’s inclusion on the list is premature, as he is still in the early stages of his career. He pointed out that many of the drivers on the list, including himself, were also included at a young age. Harvick himself was just 28 years old when he was named one of the 50 greatest drivers in NASCAR history. So why should Larson be excluded just because he is still in his prime?
But perhaps the most powerful statement from Harvick was when he said, “If you’re going to make a list of the greatest drivers in NASCAR history, you have to include Kyle Larson.” This statement speaks volumes about Larson’s impact on the sport and his potential to become one of the all-time greats.
Of course, there will always be those who disagree with Larson’s inclusion on the list. Some argue that he has not yet won a championship or a Daytona 500, two of the most prestigious achievements in NASCAR. But as Harvick pointed out, Larson’s career is far from over, and he still has plenty of time to add those accomplishments to his resume.
In the end, the debate over Larson’s place on the “Greatest Drivers” list may never be settled. But one thing is for sure, he has already made a significant impact on the sport and has the potential to achieve even greater things in the future. And as Harvick’s words have shown, there are many who believe that he has already earned his spot among the greatest drivers in NASCAR history.
So let’s celebrate Larson’s inclusion on the list and look forward to seeing what he will accomplish in the years to come. As fans, we should appreciate the talent and skill that he brings to the sport and recognize that he is a deserving member of the “Greatest Drivers” list. And who knows, maybe one day we will see him at the top of that list, with his name etched in NASCAR history forever.
