Story perspectives

Larson’s Phoenix Tire Failure Drops Him to 34th

By Drooid · Oct 19, 2026, 10:32 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Kyle Larson Crashes

Kyle Larson (Hendrick Motorsports) crashed at Phoenix after a right-front tire failure, finishing 34th.
The right-front tire blew on lap 283 entering Turn 1, sending his No. 5 Chevrolet into the wall.
Kyle Larson’s lead narrowed to a five-point advantage over Christopher Bell.
Christopher Bell rose to second with 2,365 points, four behind Larson’s 2,370.

Summary

Bell Pushes Larson

Kyle Larson (NASCAR driver) and Christopher Bell (NASCAR driver) said at a Phoenix conference they are competitive acquaintances, not friends.
Kyle Larson (NASCAR driver) and Christopher Bell (NASCAR driver) raced dirt and competed at Chili Bowl Nationals.
Kyle Larson (NASCAR driver) and Christopher Bell (NASCAR driver) crashed battling for the lead at 2021 Bristol dirt race.
Kyle Larson (NASCAR driver) said Christopher Bell pushes him to improve and forces growth.

History

Historical Context

When Goodyear became NASCAR’s sole tire supplier after Firestone’s 1974 exit, its products powered the sport until a 2008 Talladega race saw Goodyear tires fail, prompting a 1,200-tire recall and a $100,000 fine. Kyle Larson’s right-front blowout at Phoenix this season revives that safety concern, driving NASCAR to tighten inspections.

1 of 3

Kyle Larson Crashes

Kyle Larson (Hendrick Motorsports) crashed at Phoenix after a right-front tire failure, finishing 34th.
The right-front tire blew on lap 283 entering Turn 1, sending his No. 5 Chevrolet into the wall.
Kyle Larson’s lead narrowed to a five-point advantage over Christopher Bell.
Christopher Bell rose to second with 2,365 points, four behind Larson’s 2,370.

1 / 3