NASCAR: 3 possible landing spots for Kyle Larson in 2021
By Asher Fair
Kyle Larson 2021 landing spots: Stewart-Haas Racing
Stewart-Haas Racing was seen as Kyle Larson’s most likely landing spot for the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series season entering the 2020 season, even before he was fired by Chip Ganassi Racing, for a number of reasons.
Team co-owner Tony Stewart has always been fond of Larson’s abilities, and the two drivers share illustrious dirt track racing backgrounds.
Stewart even tried to sign Larson as his replacement for the 2017 season when he announced in 2015 that he would be retiring following the 2016 season, but Larson’s deal with Chip Ganassi Racing at the time prevented him from being able to do so.
Additionally, Stewart-Haas Racing have altered their driver lineup after each of the last four seasons, and they have yet to make a change for next year despite the fact that their four-car lineup has not yet been completely solidified. Clint Bowyer is in a contract year and has not had his deal extended for next year. He hasn’t won a race since June of 2018.
Asked about signing Larson, Stewart was supportive of the team’s current lineup and added that he doesn’t feel as though there is a need to bring him on board, and even if their lineup does end up changing for what would be a fifth consecutive year, he noted that Stewart-Haas Racing Xfinity Series driver Chase Briscoe is well-positioned for a promotion to the Cup Series.
But he has also been vocal in his support of Larson’s return, telling NASCAR to “get off their ass” to make it happen. Could he be the team owner to make it possible?
It’s still an option, but it’s no longer seen as being as strong of an option as Hendrick Motorsports.