Finally, the 2021 Cup Series champion got what he deserved—a much-sought-after win over “The Lady in Black.” Kyle Larson had led 715 laps around the 1.37-mile track in Darlington and been a runner-up thrice, yet could never make it to the victory lap. This changed in Sunday’s Southern 500, as Larson led 55 more laps, including the ultimate one.

While Hendrick Motorsports‘ #5 driver got the much-deserved win to spear into the next round, the win did not come easy. but it was more of a struggle as Larson himself shared in the post-race interview.

Basking in the glory of overwhelming one of the most treacherous and technically challenging tracks in the playoff rounds, Larson detailed his endeavor, subtly mocking Bubba Wallace of 23XI Racing.

Kyle Larson delivers a low-key blow to Bubba Wallace as he finally tames the “tough” track

Rick Hendrick‘s 31-year-old driver has finally got himself the sought-after win in Darlington, after coming short on several occasions, most famously in 2018, when he led 284 laps and won both stages. Often lauded as a once-in-a-generation talent, Larson finally conquered the “The Track Too Tough to Tame” after taking the lead in the final stage.

The #5 Chevy was the first off the pit lane when the race was cautioned as veteran Ryan Newman slid off on turn 4. Larson led on the restart with 51 of the 367 laps remaining, then held on through two more late-race restarts in the final 47 laps. While 23XI Racing‘s #45 driver gave the HMS Chevy a close competition, it couldn’t halt Larson’s late blitzkrieg as he edged Tyler Reddick by 0.447 seconds to the checkered flag, earning his first-ever Southern 500 win.

And post the race, the scene was ecstatic as Larson detailed his struggles, jabbing away a stiff one at Denny Hamlin’s second driver, Bubba Wallace. Larson almost quoted a dejected and doubtful Bubba Wallace who was caught in the rut though the situations were polar opposites, saying, “I’ve been pretty hard on myself here the last couple months, but having a leader like Cliff, he really is good for my mind.” 

READ MORE: “Usually Getting the Wall”- Kyle Larson Gets Candid as He Hands Rick Hendrick the Penultimate Honor

Crediting his crew chief, Cliff Daniels, Larson extended his appreciation to his boss, Rick Hendrick, and all the partners involved including the team Vice Chairman, Jeff Gordon. “Just proud of the team, proud of Rick Hendrick, Jeff Gordon, Jeff Andrews, Chad Knaus, everybody at Hendrick Engine shop. 500 wins, that’s incredible, so congratulations to each and every one of you at the shop for all your hard work. Valvoline, JINYA Ramen Bar, all of Hendrick Motorsports.” said the 31-year-old. 

Man of the hour, Larson details his struggles to claim his first-ever Southern 500 win

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What looked like another show of dominance by the #11 Joe Gibbs Racing driver was quickly turned around by the HMS Chevy as Larson put on a blistering pace, fending off the attack from Reddick. Larson’s friend and controversialist, Denny Hamlin looked like he was on his way to his 5th win at the short track, acing both the first 2 stages.

However, confusion in the JGR camp got the #11 back, eventually getting his best as he went from Stage winner to the 25th race finisher. While Hamlin got his day turned around, Larson quickly ascended the throne, taking it and keeping it for himself as he held off Reddick who was hot on his tail.

Reflecting on his stellar win, Larson detailed his monumental win, saying, “Yeah, finally from start to finish. 18th to third in the first stage, I didn’t think that was possible.” Larson who seemed like a predator on the prowl reflected how everything came together under the lights. 

“Our race car was really good when the sun was out. Just had to work on it. I messed up once and it got hung in neutral, and I slid and hit the wall, and I think bent the toe link a little bit, so it was kind of a struggle from there,” said the #5 driver. He also added, “Definitely had to fight it more than I was earlier, but we kept our heads in the game. That was really important. This race is all about keeping your head in it.”

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