Overview

• On the Games With Names podcast, Kyle Larson said Talladega Nights “turned our sport into a joke” and hurt NASCAR’s public credibility.
• William Byron backed Larson’s view on social media with a post stating ‘100%. Should not be the first thing people think of,’ showing unity within Hendrick Motorsports.
• Larson lauded more authentic films by naming Days of Thunder his favorite and praising the Senna documentary while noting he hasn’t seen the new Brad Pitt F1 movie.
• He relayed that Jeff Gordon told him Tom Cruise is considering a Days of Thunder sequel, indicating ongoing interest in a more genuine racing narrative.
• The drivers’ comments reflect broader concern that stereotype-driven entertainment could overshadow NASCAR’s professional legitimacy as it seeks new audiences.