Breaking:Kyle Larson Pushes for Drastic NASCAR Rule Changes: “We’re in Need of a Shake-Up”…read more
NASCAR champion Kyle Larson calls for drastic rule changes in the Cup Series, including a horsepower increase to 750. Drivers and fans push for bold steps to improve racing excitement.
Kyle Larson Pushes for Drastic NASCAR Rule Changes: “We’re in Need of a Shake-Up”
In the midst of growing criticism over the current NASCAR Cup Series regulations, reigning champion Kyle Larson is calling for bold, sweeping changes to the sport—starting with a long-discussed horsepower increase.
Larson, who was speaking to the media during the weekend’s race event at Kansas Speedway, voiced his support for raising the current horsepower limit of 670 to a higher threshold, ideally around 750. But he didn’t stop there. The Hendrick Motorsports driver emphasized that NASCAR needs more than just incremental improvements. In his view, a major overhaul is necessary to rejuvenate the on-track product and re-engage fans.
“I think we would be all for trying something,” Larson said. “I don’t know if it’s going to change the racing drastically. It’s a decent size increase but it’s not massive. I’d be open for it. I know we all are. I think it’s gotten a little bit stale, the racing product. We’re in need of a drastic change to try and help. I think it would help—it would be a good start.”
The discussion around increasing horsepower has been heating up within the NASCAR community. Drivers and fans alike have been vocal in their belief that more power under the hood could improve the competitiveness and excitement of races.
Adding more fuel to the fire, NASCAR legend and three-time Cup Series champion Tony Stewart recently claimed that over half the field approached NASCAR officials with this suggestion years ago. However, the proposal was reportedly dismissed at the time.
Now, there appears to be a shift in tone. NASCAR’s managing director of racing communications, Mike Forde, confirmed that the idea of upping horsepower is back on the table and will be seriously considered.
“I’m sure that [horsepower] will come up this weekend,” Forde said. “That’s something that we’re going to look at seriously. You hear levels of 900, 1000 horsepower, whatever—I don’t know if that’s… that’s not on the table just because of the cost. But there’s some conversation of, can you go up to 750? That’s something that I’m sure we’ll discuss with the drivers, too.”
While a jump to 750 horsepower may not seem earth-shattering, many believe it’s a step in the right direction. The current 670-horsepower configuration, introduced with the Next Gen car, has drawn criticism for limiting driver control and making it more difficult to pass, especially on short tracks and road courses.
Larson, who has consistently performed at a high level in various motorsports disciplines, seems particularly invested in seeing NASCAR evolve. As someone who’s not afraid to speak candidly, his remarks reflect a growing sense of urgency within the Cup Series garage.
Meanwhile, Larson has his sights set on another milestone this weekend. He’s hoping to win a record-tying fourth All-Star Race. However, he won’t be participating in the All-Star qualifying or heat races due to his commitment to qualifying for the Indianapolis 500. Instead, veteran driver Justin Allgaier will step in to secure Larson’s starting spot for Sunday’s main event.
With prominent voices like Larson and Stewart turning up the pressure, NASCAR could be on the verge of some significant changes. Whether it’s more horsepower or a broader revamp of the racing product, one thing is clear—drivers are ready, and so are the fans.
