On April 13, NASCAR suspended Kyle Larson following the use of a racial slur during an iRacing event. He was also fired by his No. 42 seat with Chip Ganassi Racing.
The suspension length was listed as indefinite. Part of the penalty also noted that Larson was required to complete sensitivity training.
Within weeks, Larson completed the sensitivity training class. And he went beyond that, traveling the country on a quest to learn more about racial injustice in the United States.
At the same time, he returned to the dirt tracks. He’s been dominating sprint car, midget, Silver Crown and late models with wins across all divisions.
Last week, Larson completed his first tv interview where he spoke on his use of the word. He took blame, apologized and noted the word had been removed from his vocabulary.
Related: Kyle Larson says, “I’m not a racist” (Video)
On Friday, NASCAR confirmed that Larson had applied to be reinstated. Now, Larson will be allowed to race in 2021.
Per the release, Larson still isn’t allowed to race in 2020. However, his suspension is scheduled to be lifted on January 1, 2021.
NASCAR statement on Kyle Larson
NASCAR released the following statement on Monday:
“NASCAR continues to prioritize diversity and inclusion across our sport. Kyle Larson has fulfilled the requirements set by NASCAR, and has taken several voluntary measures, to better educate himself so that he can use his platform to help bridge the divide in our country.”
The statement added, “Larson’s indefinite suspension has been lifted. Under the terms of his reinstatement, he will be cleared to return to all NASCAR racing activities effective January 1, 2021.”
2021 NASCAR seats
It remains unclear where Larson will land in 2021. However, Hendrick Motorsports is the likely candidate. A possible switch on the #88 to the #5 could be his seat.
No. 14
Stewart-Haas Racing
Clint Bowyer
No. 32
Go Fas Racing
Corey LaJoie
No. 88 / No. 5?
Hendrick Motorsports
Alex Bowman
Related: Kyle Larson has applied for NASCAR reinstatement; No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports car
Links
Kyle Larson | Hendrick Motorsports – Chip Ganassi Racing – NASCAR