Kyle Larson has doubled down on his stance in the ongoing NASCAR vs Formula 1 debate, again stating that he believes he is a better all-around driver than Max Verstappen.
Speaking on the SPEED podcast, Larson revisited comments that first sparked global reaction in 2024. His remarks come as interest in the rivalry between American stock car racing and Formula 1 continues to grow.
Larson addressed both his original claim and the backlash from Formula 1 fans, framing the discussion as part of a wider debate about driver skill, versatility, and how different forms of motorsport are valued across regions.
Kyle Larson Stands By All-Around Driver Claim
Larson reiterated his earlier statement, citing versatility across multiple racing formats as the reason for his confidence.
“I know in my mind I am better than him as an all-around driver. There’s no way [Verstappen] can get into a Sprint Car and win the Knoxville Nationals. There’s no way he can win the Chili Bowl. There’s no way he can go win a Cup race at Bristol.”
“That’s what gives me ease and confidence that I know I’m better than him. Maybe not in an open-wheel IndyCar or Formula 1 car, but that’s one discipline. I think I would beat him in everything else. You can quote that.”
Larson has competed in sprint cars, dirt late models, and the NASCAR Cup Series. He won the 2021 Cup Series title and has built a record across different racing surfaces. Verstappen has focused on Formula 1, where he has won multiple championships with Red Bull Racing since 2021.
Larson Highlights NASCAR vs Formula 1 Perception Gap
Larson said the reaction from Formula 1 fans reflects a wider gap in how motorsport is viewed. “I think Americans in general don’t get the respect that they deserve from Europeans in any form of sports. Racing, especially, too.”
He also pointed to Formula 1’s global reach as a reason for that view. “I mean, Formula 1 is huge, right? I mean, it’s by far the biggest, most-watched motorsport that there is, so it’s understandable that their fans are so focused on that that they’re not paying attention to what we’re doing over here in America, and that’s fine, whatever.”
“But yeah, I think that makes it where they don’t think that there can ever be another driver as good as the worst Formula 1 driver.”
Larson linked this to the variety of racing in the United States, including short tracks, dirt ovals, and road courses, which he said helps develop adaptable drivers.
Debate Continues As Global Interest Grows
Larson said the debate over the best driver may not have a clear answer. “I don’t know how you ever figure out who the best is. And I don’t know if you need to.”
He added, “I think the debate’s fun, you know, it’s fun to have the banter between American fans or European fans or open-wheel fans, or whatever.”
Larson continues to race across multiple series, while Verstappen remains active at the top level of Formula 1. Interest between NASCAR and Formula 1 has increased through shared audiences and crossover discussions. Larson’s latest comments show that the NASCAR vs Formula 1 debate remains active among drivers and fans.
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