Are Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott friends? Race incidents of NASCAR's Hendrick Motorsports

Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott's racing relationship has featured notable ups and downs, especially after on-track incidents in the 2022 NASCAR season.

Despite their affiliation with Hendrick Motorsports, Larson and Elliott's on-track interactions have sparked questions among fans regarding the depth of their relationship. One particularly memorable incident unfolded at Auto Club Speedway during a NASCAR Cup Series Race.

At Auto Club Speedway, Elliott was spun out, possibly due to a misjudgment by Larson. The incident demonstrated the high-stakes nature of their rivalry and the potential for their competitive instincts to clash on the track. The incident triggered immediate reactions from fans, who deemed the contact during stage 1 of the race unnecessary.

Motorsports analysts echoed these sentiments, labeling the moment "uncalled for." The incident catalyzed support for Larson among fans, sparking a burgeoning friendly dispute.

During a late-race restart at Watkins Glen International, the tension between Larson and Elliott resurfaced. Larson put himself alongside Elliott on the front row with only five laps remaining. He aggressively maneuvered as they approached the first turn, forcing Elliott wide to secure the lead and eventual victory.

Elliott lost momentum and ended up finishing fourth at the checkered flag. The maneuver prompted subsequent discussions and meetings between the two drivers to address the on-track altercation.

"I think Fontana was easier to get over because it was the first time something happened," Larson said while attending the Daytona 500's Media Day. "I think Watkins Glen was tougher to get over because it happened a second time."

"I mean, it took weeks, I would say, to get moved on from it. But I feel like we’re in a good, an okay spot right now. You know, we both did an appearance together, you know, a few weeks ago in California, and we were playing on a golf simulator together. So I feel like like everything’s ok."

Despite occasional on-track incidents, Larson and Elliott have demonstrated a deep mutual respect, such as teaming up for the 2022 Chili Bowl Nationals. While Larson admitted that he wasn't quite ready to reconcile fully, the gesture exemplified ongoing efforts to mend their friendship despite the tensions on the racetrack.

Larson hinted at maintaining a cordial relationship with Elliott despite another incident at Pocono Raceway in 2023. Larson voiced his concerns, suggesting that Elliott might race with less-than-honorable intentions. Motorsport reporter Danielle Trotta called Elliott's behavior toward his teammate at Kansas Speedway unacceptable. 

"Chase's behavior was totally unacceptable in a year where his decision making has been questionable to the point of being suspended."