Las Vegas, Nevada, October 13, 2025
News Summary
Kyle Larson has advanced to the Round of 8 in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. Following a challenging Round of 16, Larson is optimistic about upcoming races at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Talladega Superspeedway, and Martinsville. He highlights the significance of strong, elite teams in this stage and the impact of previous rounds on championship contenders. With Hendrick Motorsports’ strong history at Talladega, Larson is focused on consistency and execution to succeed in the playoffs.
Las Vegas, Nevada – Kyle Larson is currently participating in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series playoffs, having progressed to the crucial Round of 8 after navigating a challenging Round of 16. In his previous three races, Larson finished 19th at Darlington, 12th at World Wide Technology Raceway, and 32nd at Bristol. However, his performance improved remarkably with all top-10 finishes achieved in the subsequent playoff round.
The upcoming Round of 8 will kick off with a race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, a venue where Larson has expressed confidence due to the favorable conditions for his performance. Reflecting on racing at Talladega Superspeedway, he noted that it is preferable during the Round of 8 as it minimizes the likelihood of ‘fluke’ winners. He emphasized how the elimination of wild-card contenders in the earlier rounds enhances the chances of strong, financially-backed teams succeeding in this segment of the playoffs.
The previous rounds have seen unexpected winners impacting the championship aspirations of favorites, with Larson referencing A.J. Allmendinger’s victory at the Charlotte Roval in 2023 as a key example. As a result, he feels confident heading into the Round of 8, particularly with the tracks set to host the races: Las Vegas, Talladega, and Martinsville.
Notably, Hendrick Motorsports (HMS), where Larson races, boasts a remarkable history with Talladega, having recorded 14 wins—the highest among all teams. During the current season, HMS also secured four top-10 finishes at Talladega, further underscoring their competitiveness at the track.
Larson highlighted a significant difference in the competition levels between the Round of 12 and the Round of 8. He remarked that the latter features a higher concentration of elite teams, making it a more challenging environment. While he acknowledges the danger of multi-car incidents at Talladega, he remains optimistic about his chances in the upcoming races.
In light of fan feedback, NASCAR has made the decision to increase horsepower for select tracks from 670hp to 750hp. Larson participated in a test of the new higher horsepower setup and suggested that fans manage their expectations, outlining that the difference in performance wasn’t markedly noticeable. The increased horsepower is anticipated to be deployed at specific road courses and shorter ovals in the 2026 season.
Teammate Chase Elliott referred to the horsepower increase initiative as a ‘good effort’, but he emphasized that the focus should remain on overall performance and strategy rather than just on maximizing speed. Larson humorously noted not realizing he was testing the higher horsepower setup, reinforcing his point about keeping fan expectations grounded.
As the playoffs progress, Larson and his HMS teammates are concentrating on execution and consistency—key elements they believe will help them achieve success in the later stages of the playoffs.
FAQ
What playoff round is Kyle Larson currently in?
Kyle Larson is currently participating in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series playoffs, specifically in the Round of 8.
How did Larson perform in the Round of 16?
In the Round of 16, Larson finished 19th at Darlington, 12th at World Wide Technology Raceway, and 32nd at Bristol.
What are the upcoming tracks for Larson in the Round of 8?
The upcoming Round of 8 will begin with a race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, followed by Talladega Superspeedway and Martinsville.
What is Larson’s view on racing at Talladega Superspeedway?
Larson believes Talladega is preferable in the Round of 8 as there are fewer potential ‘fluke’ winners due to the elimination of wild-card contenders in previous rounds.
How many wins does Hendrick Motorsports have at Talladega?
Hendrick Motorsports has a record 14 wins at Talladega, the highest among all teams.
What change has NASCAR announced regarding horsepower for select tracks?
NASCAR has announced an increase in horsepower for select tracks from 670hp to 750hp due to fan feedback.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Current Playoff Participation | Kyle Larson is in the Round of 8 of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. |
| Round of 16 Performance | Larson finished 19th at Darlington, 12th at World Wide Technology Raceway, and 32nd at Bristol. |
| Upcoming Races | The Round of 8 will include races at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Talladega Superspeedway, and Martinsville. |
| Hendrick Motorsports Achievements | HMS has 14 wins at Talladega, the highest among all teams. |
| Horsepower Increase | NASCAR is increasing horsepower from 670hp to 750hp for select tracks based on fan feedback. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Kyle Larson Faces Challenges After Ambitious Racing Weekend
New Hampshire Motor Speedway Returns to NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs
Christopher Bell Triumphs in Bristol Night Race
Bristol Night Race Sees Four Drivers Eliminated from NASCAR Playoffs
Austin Dillon Faces Crucial Bristol Challenge in NASCAR Playoffs
West Virginians Compete in Bristol Motor Speedway ARCA Race
Joe Gibbs Racing Continues Dominance at Bristol Motor Speedway
Sara Evans to Perform at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol
Bristol, Tennessee Readies for NASCAR Weekend
Bass Pro Shops Night Race Set to Impact NASCAR Playoffs
Additional Resources
- NASCAR: Bristol Playoff Race 2025
- Wikipedia: NASCAR
- Jayski’s NASCAR Silly Season Site
- Google Search: Kyle Larson
- Hendrick Motorsports: Bristol Starting Lineup
- Google Scholar: Hendrick Motorsports
- WJHL: NASCAR Horsepower Boost
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Las Vegas Motor Speedway
- WCYB: NASCAR Horsepower Increase
- Google News: NASCAR Playoffs
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
