Kyle Larson is open to NASCAR including podiums for the highest three finishers — like we’ll see after Sunday’s Cup race in Mexico Metropolis — however with a caveat.
NASCAR’s first points-paying worldwide Cup Collection race within the twenty first century will adhere to motorsports customs adopted exterior the U.S., however it shouldn’t be a fixture in any respect its tracks, in response to the No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports driver.
“Perhaps simply your crown jewel occasions can be begin. However I’m unsure,” Larson mentioned throughout media availability on Saturday. “I come from grime racing the place the highest three must cease on the frontstretch each evening and do your interview, which we do interviews on pit street (in NASCAR) and stuff, in order that’s not manner completely different.”
Larson admitted that whereas it may be irritating to pressure a smile after a troublesome race, followers recognize seeing the highest three drivers on the frontstretch for images and the general second. He pointed to different types of motorsport — particularly Formulation One — the place the post-race podium celebrates not simply the drivers, but in addition their international locations, with nationwide anthems including to the event.
On the identical time, the 32-year-old additionally believes that NASCAR shouldn’t lose its personal identification. “I simply suppose that’s a pleasant added contact. So, yeah, I feel there’s methods to take a look at it and make it type of really feel like our personal; we’re not fully copying different types of motorsports,” he added.
Fellow Cup driver Ross Chastain mentioned it might be troublesome to have three drivers on a platform — and even as Larson mentioned, on the frontstretch after a race — however recognition needs to be given to extra than simply the successful driver.
Larson agrees. “Second and third needs to be celebrated slightly bit greater than it’s. Not just for your self and your workforce, however your companions and whatnot. I feel there’s ways in which NASCAR can have a look at making it have their very own type of contact and really feel,” he mentioned.
NASCAR has tried podiums earlier than
NASCAR has beforehand experimented with podium ceremonies, corresponding to in the course of the three years the preseason Conflict was held on the Los Angeles Coliseum.
“I assumed the L.A. Conflict factor was superior, too,” Larson mentioned. “So, yeah, we’ve achieved it earlier than. I feel we will do it at different locations.”
As NASCAR continues to discover podium traditions from different types of motorsport, the problem lies in putting a steadiness between innovation and preserving its personal heritage.
