From EssentiallySports · Aaradhya Singh · · 1m 20s
Kyle Larson's Phoenix Stats Puzzle
Larson admits his team's Phoenix performance is deceptive despite strong finishes.
In brief
Larson admits his team's Phoenix performance is deceptive despite strong finishes. Kyle Larson's team has strong Phoenix finishes but lacks speed, risking championship lead in final Chase races. Originally reported by EssentiallySports.
Larson's Phoenix Finish Record
Larson has three P3 finishes at Phoenix Raceway, including his second Cup championship win.
“No, we’re terrible”
Larson's Team Performance
Larson says his No. 5 Chevrolet is an 11th to 13th place car typically, not a race-winning machine.
Phoenix Track Challenges
Larson describes Phoenix as an awkward track with poor grip, especially in Turn 1.
“Phoenix is just such an awkward track”
Recent Race Performance
Larson finished third at Phoenix in March 2026 after struggling with loose handling.
“It was an awesome finish for how much we struggled today”
Championship Strategy
Larson's team uses smart race strategy and execution to overcome speed limitations.
2021 Championship Win
Larson won the 2021 championship after a last-lap pit stop that put him in the lead.
Chase Race Dynamics
Larson leads Chase by 49 points with 312 laps remaining after recent race results.
Pursuers' Opportunities
Briscoe and Bell have strong Phoenix results to build on for the championship chase.
Larson's Concerns
Larson fears Phoenix's grip issues could undermine his championship lead in final races.
“It doesn’t, because we were good in St. Louis last year and we went to Phoenix and we were trashed there too”
Next 312 Laps
The next 312 laps will determine whether Phoenix is Larson's best track or a challenge to his lead.
The headline
Kyle Larson's team has strong Phoenix finishes but lacks speed, risking championship lead in final Chase races.
