NASCAR driver Kyle Larson signs No. 5 team Hendrick Motorsports

Months after his suspension for dropping the n-word, NASCAR driver Kyle Larson has finally signed a new contract, allowing him to resume his career on the Hendrick Motorsports team. Both Larson and Team Owner Rick Hendrick released statements.

NASCAR’s Kyle Larson Signs With Team Hendrick Motorsports

NASCAR.com reported that Larson has signed a multi-year contract with Hendrick Motorsports.

Starting in the 2021 season, he will be driving the No. 5 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE beginning with the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series season.

The No. 5 Chevy is iconic to say the least!

The car was previously driven by Terry Labonte, who recorded 12 victories and won the 1996 Cup Series championship, as well as Bodine who won seven races, Kahn six, Mark Martin five, Kyle Busch four, and Ricky Rudd four.

That’s quite the who’s who of NASCAR. Kyle Larson certainly has some big shoes to fill!

Kyle Larson Releases A Statement

28-year-old Kyle Larson released the following statement after signing with Hendrick Motorsports:

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

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 was suspended by NASCAR indefinitely back in April after he was caught dropping the n-word during an iRacing event with fellow drivers that was being livestreamed.

Prior to his NASCAR suspension, Larson drove the No. 42 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE for Chip Ganassi Racing,

NASCAR finally reinstated the talented young driver on October 19 after he had completed sensitivity training, allowing him to take part in the 2021 season next year.

Now Kyle Larson will return to the NASCAR Cup Series as the newest member of the Hendrick Motorsports team.

RELATED: NASCAR Lifts Kyle Larson’s N-Word Suspension – Who Will Scoop Him Up?

Hendrick Motorsports Owner Speaks Out

Team owner Rick Hendrick made it clear that he is happy to have Larson onboard. 

“Kyle is unquestionably one of the most talented race car drivers in the world. 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.”

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

The Team owner showed how much he cares about Kyle Larson by giving him the No. 5 car, which holds a special place in his heart.

“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 race track 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: Hall Of Famer Tony Stewart Suggests NASCAR ‘Get Off Their A$$’ And Reinstate Kyle Larson

In today’s cancel culture, second chances such as these are rare.

Nevertheless, we’re glad to see that this young man being given a chance to redeem himself.

He made a mistake. As we all do from time to time.

This young driver does not deserve a life sentence. Or his racing career ruined for one mistake.

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