Kyle Larson Back on Dirt, but What of the Chili Bowl?
Kyle Larson, the NASCAR superstar renowned for his versatility across different forms of racing, has once again returned to his roots—dirt track racing. After a challenging 2023 NASCAR season, Larson has made it clear that while his focus remains on the Cup Series, his love for dirt racing is unwavering. Yet, as he returns to the dirt, one question remains on the minds of racing fans: What does the future hold for Larson at the Chili Bowl Nationals?
Larson, who has become a fan favorite not just for his prowess on the asphalt but also for his exceptional skill on dirt, has never been shy about his passion for racing in various disciplines. His dirt racing resume is extensive, spanning sprint cars, midgets, and late models, with many of his best performances coming on the dirt tracks. Throughout his career, Larson has made it clear that while he enjoys the glamour and attention of NASCAR, dirt racing is where his heart truly lies.
This year, Larson has been particularly active on the dirt track circuit. He kicked off his dirt racing season in the early months of 2024 with impressive performances in World of Outlaws and USAC sprint car events, continuing his tradition of racing in as many as 50 dirt races a year. But even with these strong showings, fans and pundits alike have begun to ask: Will Larson be back at the prestigious Chili Bowl Nationals, the one event that has eluded him throughout his illustrious career?
The Chili Bowl Nationals, held annually in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is often considered the “granddaddy” of midget car races. The event features hundreds of drivers from across the country and the world, all vying for a coveted victory in one of the most grueling and competitive dirt races on the calendar. Over the years, many of the biggest names in motorsport have competed in the event, but for Larson, the Chili Bowl has always been a bittersweet challenge. Despite several close calls and impressive runs, Larson has yet to claim the Golden Driller trophy, awarded to the race’s winner.
Larson’s relationship with the Chili Bowl is one of near-misses. Since his debut in 2003, he has become one of the top contenders at the event, regularly contending for podium finishes. In 2014, Larson finished second after a thrilling battle with Bryan Clauson, and in 2020, he finished third, reinforcing his reputation as one of the best dirt drivers in the world. However, despite these near-misses, the victory has remained elusive.
A primary factor in Larson’s absence from the 2024 Chili Bowl is the scheduling conflict with his NASCAR commitments. The Chili Bowl typically takes place in January, right before the start of the NASCAR season, which makes it difficult for Larson to prioritize his dirt racing pursuits alongside his commitments to the NASCAR Cup Series. While Larson has expressed an eagerness to participate in the event every year, his obligations with Hendrick Motorsports and the high demands of NASCAR, both on and off the track, often prevent him from attending.
But Larson’s love for the event remains undiminished. He has consistently stated that winning the Chili Bowl is a goal he still hopes to achieve, despite his packed schedule. In fact, Larson has made it clear that his passion for dirt racing isn’t just a hobby—it’s a career aspiration that keeps him grounded and competitive. It’s also a source of motivation in his NASCAR endeavors, where his dirt-track experience often gives him an edge in oval track racing.
What does the future hold for Larson and the Chili Bowl? The answer depends largely on the balance he is able to strike between his NASCAR duties and his dirt track commitments. As long as he remains committed to both worlds, Larson’s fans can expect to see him back at the Chili Bowl—hopefully with that elusive victory in hand. Given Larson’s track record of never giving up and his undying passion for dirt racing, it would be a mistake to count him out of the fight for the Golden Driller in the coming years.
For now, Larson’s dirt racing journey will continue to captivate fans across multiple disciplines, but the Chili Bowl remains a challenge that is still on his bucket list. With each season that passes, the intrigue surrounding his potential victory at the event only grows. Will 2025 be the year Larson finally gets the win that has eluded him for so long? Time will tell, but one thing is certain: wherever Larson races, dirt or asphalt, he remains one of the most talented and versatile drivers in
the sport today.
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