Kyle Larson Expresses Strong Interest in Rolex 24 at Daytona Comeback

Daytona Beach, FL – Two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson has indicated a significant openness to returning to the prestigious Rolex 24 at Daytona, IMSA’s season-opening endurance classic. The 33-year-old driver, a familiar face in NASCAR’s top tier with Hendrick Motorsports, has not competed in the demanding 24-hour race since 2016, but the allure of the historic event appears to be reigniting his interest.

Larson’s prior experience at Daytona International Speedway in an endurance format includes three starts. His most notable outing culminated in an overall victory in 2015, a triumphant performance achieved with Chip Ganassi Racing. He shared driving duties that year with a formidable lineup including fellow IndyCar and NASCAR veteran Scott Dixon, Brazilian racing icon Tony Kanaan, and NASCAR stalwart Jamie McMurray. This victory stands as a testament to Larson’s versatility and adaptability across different forms of motorsport.

The potential for Larson’s return to the Rolex 24 was revealed during a recent episode of the popular podcast “Dinner with Racers,” co-hosted by Ryan Eversley and Sean Heckman. When directly questioned about his willingness to participate again, particularly if an opportunity arose with Chevrolet, Larson responded affirmatively.

“I think at this stage in my career, yeah, I’d do it again,” Larson stated on the podcast. He elaborated on his past experiences, noting, “I had fun those three years I did it. I didn’t want to keep doing it every year.” This suggests that while he enjoyed the challenge and camaraderie of the event, the demanding NASCAR schedule at the time necessitated a focus on his primary discipline.

Related News :

Larson is renowned for his ability to manage an exceptionally busy racing calendar. Beyond his full-time commitment to the NASCAR Cup Series, he actively participates in the High Limit Racing sprint car series, which he co-owns with five-time World of Outlaws champion Brad Sweet. His racing endeavors also extend to sporadic midget car races and international off-season competitions, often taking him to Australia for significant events. This packed schedule, while indicative of his passion and skill, also highlights the demanding nature of his career.

Reflecting on his evolving schedule, Larson commented on the increasing demands of his off-seasons. “The offseasons have only gotten busier,” he admitted. “There’s more races and stuff. I go to Australia now, Chili Bowl, and West Coast Midget races. It’s just a lot and I, kind of, want time off. But it’s been so long since I ran it that you almost get to the point where you forget a little bit about it, right? And I just remember having a blast doing that race, so I just want to go there and relive it.” This sentiment underscores a nostalgic pull towards the unique atmosphere and challenge of the Rolex 24.

The prospect of competing in the Rolex 24 also holds personal significance for Larson, who expressed a desire for his children to witness his participation in such a prominent event. His eldest son, Owen, who is now 11 years old, was an infant when Larson achieved his 2015 victory. “To have my kids be a part of it would be cool,” Larson shared, emphasizing the family aspect of his racing career. This desire is further compounded by the proximity of the Daytona International Speedway to Walt Disney World, adding an element of family vacation to the potential trip. “Yeah, that, too,” he added when the possibility of combining the race with a family outing was mentioned.

Larson’s participation in the Indianapolis 500 in the last two years, a race also known for its demanding nature and significant prestige, further illustrates his willingness to step outside his NASCAR comfort zone. His two starts in the Indy 500, while not yielding a win, demonstrate his ambition to compete in and learn from diverse racing disciplines.

When discussing the practicalities of a potential Rolex 24 return, Larson noted a lack of direct contacts within the current IMSA paddock to facilitate such an endeavor. However, he clearly articulated a non-negotiable requirement for any future participation: “I want to be in the best car.” This statement reflects a professional and competitive mindset, prioritizing a competitive package to maximize his chances of success in a field typically populated by factory-backed and elite privateer efforts.

As the conversation on the podcast drew to a close, Larson reinforced his enthusiasm, moving beyond mere openness to a more declarative statement of intent. “I definitely want to do it again in the future,” he asserted, signaling a genuine ambition to add another significant endurance race victory to his already impressive resume.

The Rolex 24 at Daytona, a cornerstone of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, is renowned for its challenging nature, demanding precision driving, strategic brilliance, and exceptional teamwork over a full 24-hour period. The event attracts a diverse array of talent from various motorsport disciplines, including Formula 1, NASCAR, IndyCar, and top-tier sports car racing protagonists. The inclusion of a driver with Larson’s caliber and proven success in multiple racing series would undoubtedly enhance the spectacle and competitive intensity of the race.

The 2026 Rolex 24 at Daytona entry list has already been unveiled, showcasing a maximum grid, indicating a high level of interest from teams and manufacturers looking to compete in the prestigious event. While specific team affiliations for Larson remain speculative, his expressed desire and the potential involvement of Chevrolet, a manufacturer he represents in NASCAR, create a plausible scenario for his eventual return to the historic Florida circuit. The continuous evolution of sports car racing, with manufacturers investing in advanced prototypes and GT machinery, provides an enticing platform for drivers like Larson to test their mettle.

The legacy of the Rolex 24 is built on memorable performances and unexpected triumphs. Kyle Larson, with his inherent speed, tenacity, and championship pedigree, possesses all the attributes necessary to be a significant factor should he secure a seat in a competitive entry. His past success at Daytona, coupled with his current form across different racing disciplines, positions him as a driver capable of contending for victory in this iconic endurance race. The motorsport community will undoubtedly be watching closely to see if this expressed interest materializes into a confirmed entry for a future edition of the Rolex 24 at Daytona.