Kyle Larson, one of NASCAR’s most popular drivers, may miss the playoffs, which is surprising given that he has already won two races this season. However, if NASCAR adheres strictly to its regulations, #5 might be eliminated from playoff contention. Why? When faced with a scheduling conflict due to inclement weather during his double-duty effort, Larson elected to stay in Indianapolis for the Indy 500 rather than travel to Charlotte for the NASCAR Cup Series race, the Coca-Cola 600.
NASCAR’s rules are clear: drivers must compete in all 26 races to be eligible for the playoffs. With the decision still up in the air, NASCAR fans are plainly divided. However, an insider from 23XI Racing has expressed his strong stance on the topic.
A NASCAR insider claims that someone within the organization is potentially undermining #5’s chance at a waiver
In the past, waivers have been granted quite freely, even to drivers like Chase Elliott for injuries not related to racing, or those suspended for their actions on the track. However, Larson’s situation is dragging on because it’s uncharted territory—he opted to stay in Indianapolis, fully aware of the implications. Based on his stellar performance alone, Larson should have already secured his spot in the playoffs. Yet, he finds himself in a precarious position in the standings, hovering in limbo.
Amidst this uncertainty about Larson’s chance to compete in the postseason, Bubba Wallace‘s spotter, Freddie Kraft, has weighed in, echoing the widespread opinion that Larson deserves the waiver. The consensus is clear: Larson’s exceptional track performance merits his inclusion in the playoffs.
Kraft mentioned on his Door Bumper Clear podcast, “Somebody clearly does not want to give it to him. I don’t know who that is but there’s somebody somewhere that clearly does not want to see. […] If it was up to me based on the brass tax of it I would say he doesn’t deserve a waiver but what you’ve done in the past can’t just dictate what you do in the future; you got to give him one I think.”
Despite knowing that Larson’s exclusion could potentially benefit his own driver, Bubba Wallace, Kraft still supports granting Larson the waiver. “I don’t want him to get one by no means so I want him to get one because that eliminates a spot now we’re right now we’re three to the good three you know there’s two drivers behind us that would eliminate one if he gets it. But listen you this is the precedent you’ve set the guy got suspended he wasn’t injured he wasn’t this and you gave him a waiver. So, now all of a sudden because your feelings are hurt that he chose this race over your race like now you don’t want to give them one? I think somebody’s feelings are hurt.”
And it’s not just the insider from 23XI speaking out—Bubba Wallace himself has weighed in on the debate as well.
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