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Is Kyle Larson's move to SVG's racing roots the comeback story we all need right now?

Kyle Larson, a symbol of dedication in modern NASCAR, has raced in various formats since starting at 14. From Go Karts to NASCAR’s ARCA Menards and K&N Pro Series, he’s excelled across the board. However, recent struggles, including a wreck-filled 27th-place finish at Daytona and a late loss at Darlington, have raised concerns about his form.

Despite these setbacks, the 32-year-old remains focused on the future, revealing plans to return to the racing roots of rising Xfinity talent Shane Van Gisbergen.

Kyle Larson’s impact extends beyond NASCAR. Known for his passion and dedication, he’s earned respect across multiple racing disciplines. Alongside 27 NASCAR Cup Series wins, Larson has excelled in dirt track racing, claiming victories at prestigious events like the Chili Bowl Nationals and Knoxville Nationals. Recently, he made waves in IndyCar, participating in the Indianapolis 500 with Arrow McLaren and earning Rookie of the Year honors.

His racing ambitions are much more than what he has currently achieved. During a discussion at ‘The Teardown’ for Dale Jr.’s Dirty Mo Media, Larson openly discussed his bucket list.

The 32-year-old said, “I mean, I feel like I’ve gotten the chance to race a lot of different things, like I am going to Australia this winter for to run one weekend at Perth. That was something that I wanted to do. You know it’s probably not mega news or anything, but I am looking forward to that. It’s been forever since I ran the Rolex 24 hour but maybe down the road a few more years I’d like to try that again.”

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Kyle Larson is set to race at the Perth Motorplex for the High Limit International event from December 28-30, 2024, where top Australian sprint car drivers will compete for a record $100,000 prize, the largest in the country’s sprint car history.

Joining a prestigious group of NASCAR stars who’ve raced in Australia, Larson’s ambitions extend further as he eyes another shot at the Rolex 24-hour endurance race, which he last competed in back in 2016. Known for his versatility, the HMS driver continues to make waves globally while embracing the rich stock car culture in Australia.

What’s your perspective on:

Is Kyle Larson's move to SVG's racing roots the comeback story we all need right now?

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As Kyle Larson heads to Australia, Australian racers are shining in NASCAR

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Although Shane van Gisbergen originally hails from New Zealand, he is probably the most impactful racer from the region still active in NASCAR. After a successful stint in karting, Formula First, and Formula Ford in New Zealand, the time to take his racing to the next level had arrived.

At the young age of 17, SVG signed for V8 Supercars. The NASCAR-like racing format in Australia was a breakthrough decision for Shane van Gisbergen. He won the V8 Championship three times in 2016, 2021, and 2022. Thus, SVG was one of the most successful drivers in the division’s history.

Other than Van Gisbergen, another popular racer from Australia was Marcos Ambrose. The former racer had won the V8 Supercars championship twice in the years 2003 and 2004. Ambrose secured 28 career wins at the V8 Championship. He decided to move to the United States and take part in NASCAR racing.

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Currently, the competition director at Gary Rogers Motorsports, Ambrose, took part in the Cup Series races, managing two wins in 2011 and 2012. He also had an impressive run in the Xfinity Series, winning five races. Interestingly, all his career wins at NASCAR came at the Watkins Glen International Speedway.

What are your thoughts on Kyle Larson’s upcoming fixture? Do tell us in the comments down below.