Despite weak results, NASCAR points leader Kyle Larson views Talladega as a chance to rebound

TALLADEGA, Ala. (AP) — Points leader Kyle Larson is looking to rebound from a poor performance in the NASCAR Chase at Talladega Superspeedway. Known for its mammoth 2.66-mile oval and propensity for crashes, Talladega is a track that has plagued Larson throughout his career. He finished last at the April 26 race there, with an average finish of 22nd over 23 starts at the track, second-worst on the circuit.

Despite the challenges, Larson sees Talladega as an opportunity to bounce back, stating, “I still look at it as an opportunity, for sure, to get out here and have a shot to win.” A 34th-place finish at Phoenix Raceway brought an abrupt end to Larson’s strong start to the Chase, but he remains confident, saying, “I’m more confident here than I am at Phoenix.”

The defending Cup Series champion has a five-point lead over Christopher Bell with only three races remaining. However, the prospect of earning his third title seems dimmer at this drafting superspeedway, where Larson has never won in 58 career starts. He will need assistance from drafting partners to push his No. 5 Chevrolet to the front, hoping his teammates and other Chevy drivers in the field will be mindful of his situation.