Kyle Larson started Sunday’s race from 19th position on the grid. Driving a car inspired by Terry Labonte’s 2003 Kellogg’s car (which Labonte earned his final Cup win with), Larson’s throwback scheme was awarded ‘Best in Show’ ahead of the 400-mile race.
Unfortunately, it didn’t look that good for long. As Larson tried to make up some ground early, he was battling side-by-side with Joey Logano for 18th when his day came to a sudden and abrupt end.
Exiting Turn 2 on the low side, Larson crossed a seam through the uneven transition between banking and apron and spun sideways. The No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet slid across the track, slamming the inside wall nose-first. Larson tried, but was unable to drive it back due to the front-end damage.
“So sorry,” radioed a despondent Larson. The car was towed back to the garage to undergo lengthy repairs. Larson won the Southern 500 at Darlington in 2023 and has the second-best average finish among active drivers at the historic track.
It took over half the race, but Larson finally returned to the race near the end of the second stage, running over 160 laps down. He was able to quickly meet minimum speed. J.J. Yeley was the only other driver to go behind the wall during that time.
Photos from Darlington – Race
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