Kyle Larson to drive No. 5 for Hendrick Motorsports in 2021 NASCAR season

Rick Hendrick and Kyle Larson comment on 2021

This morning, Kyle Larson and Hendrick Motorsports signed the papers, placing him in the No. 5 for 2021.

It also marks the return of the No. 5 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE. Hendrick Motorsports hasn’t run the No. 5 since 2017.

Larson will be paired with crew chief Cliff Daniels. Daniels currently leads the No. 48 team with Jimmie Johnson.

The driver is currently suspended from NASCAR following a racial slur back in April. However, his suspension will be lifted on January 1, 2021.

Related: Kyle Larson cleared for NASCAR return following suspension

Rick Hendrick on Kyle Larson

“Kyle is unquestionably one of the most talented race car drivers in the world,” said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports.

“He has championship-level ability and will be a significant addition to our on-track program. More importantly, I have full confidence that he understands our expectations and will be a tremendous ambassador for our team, our partners and NASCAR.”

“Kyle and I have had many, many conversations leading up to today’s announcement. I’m confident about what’s in his heart and his desire to be a champion in all aspects of his life and career. Kyle has done important work over the past six months, and Hendrick Motorsports is going to support those continued efforts.”

Larson joins Alex Bowman, Chase Elliott and William Byron. The average age of all drivers within the team is now just 26.

“I’m excited about our roster of young talent,” Hendrick said. “We have a team that is built to win races and compete for championships for years to come.”

“The ‘5’ is special to me. It’s the original,” Hendrick said. “I view it as Hendrick Motorsports’ flagship team in a lot of ways. To bring the car back to the racetrack is meaningful for my family and for many of our team members and fans. We plan to build on its winning history with Kyle and Cliff.”

Related: Kyle Larson to shut down sprint car team

Kyle Larson at Port Royal Speedway - Dirt Late Model Racing - Lucas Oil Series 2914
Kyle Larson at Port Royal Speedway – Dirt Late Model Racing – Lucas Oil Series 2914

Kyle Larson on his return

“Hendrick Motorsports is a championship organization that has set a high bar for performance and for how its drivers represent the team and its partners,” Larson said.

“My goal is to win races, be a great teammate, continue my personal efforts to grow, and hold myself to that high standard personally and professionally. Making the absolute most of this platform and the opportunity in front of me is my focus. I know what’s expected of me and what I expect of myself, on and off the track.

“Mr. Hendrick is one of the people who extended a hand to me over the past six months. Our initial conversations were not about racing. He cares about me as a person and wants to see me succeed beyond driving. I can’t put into words how grateful I am for the commitment, the faith and the confidence from him and everyone at Hendrick Motorsports.”

Larson made his cup series debut in 2013. With 223 starts on his resume, Larson has 101 top-10s with six wins.

Related: Tony Stewart explains signing talks with Kyle Larson

Links

Kyle Larson | Hendrick Motorsports – Chip Ganassi Racing – NASCAR

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