Kyle Larson is approaching a milestone that should make every NASCAR fan pay attention. The defending Cup Series champion enters Martinsville with a 73-point advantage over Denny Hamlin.
He can clinch another championship this weekend. If he does, Larson will have won back-to-back titles and three championships overall.
And somehow, people still argue about whether he gets enough credit.
The Numbers Are Getting Hard To Ignore
Larson’s 2026 season was not perfect. He endured a lengthy winless stretch before finding his form during the Chase.
But that is precisely what makes his current position impressive. He recovered, won multiple postseason races and built a commanding championship lead.
Now he heads to Martinsville with a chance to finish the job before the season finale.
Where Does Larson Rank Among NASCAR’s Best?
This is where the argument gets interesting.
Larson’s raw talent has rarely been questioned. His ability to compete across different forms of racing makes him one of the most versatile drivers of his generation.
But championships are what separate great seasons from great careers.
If Larson clinches Sunday, the conversation about his historical standing becomes harder to avoid. If he falls short, the debate continues.
Either way, NASCAR fans should enjoy watching one of the sport’s most gifted drivers build his legacy.
The question is no longer whether Larson belongs among the best drivers of his era. It is how high he can climb.