Tony Stewart Cautions Kyle Larson Amid Praise: “He’s My Real Successor, But He’s Headed Toward Trouble”
In a revealing interview with Speed Sport, NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart delivered both high praise and a serious warning to current Cup Series star Kyle Larson. Stewart, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and one of the sport’s most versatile legends, didn’t hold back in calling Larson his “true successor.” But he also expressed concern about Larson’s intense 2025 racing calendar, cautioning that the driver may be on a dangerous path if he doesn’t ease up.
“He’s doing it all — Cup races, dirt tracks, and now the Indy 500-Coke 600 double,” Stewart said. “Kyle’s the only one out there who reminds me of myself in my prime. He’s carrying the torch I once held. But he’s pushing way too hard. Disaster’s around the corner if he doesn’t slow down.”
Larson, who has already tallied six victories in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, is widely regarded as one of the most skilled and aggressive drivers in modern motorsports. His ability to juggle multiple disciplines — including sprint cars and a planned attempt at both the Indianapolis 500 and Coca-Cola 600 on the same day — has impressed fans and insiders alike. But for Stewart, who experienced physical and emotional fatigue late in his career, Larson’s full-throttle approach raises red flags.
“People think you can just keep going and going,” Stewart added. “But even the best run out of gas — literally and mentally. I’ve been there. I see a lot of myself in Kyle, and that’s why I’m worried.”
Larson, never one to shy away from a challenge, responded with gratitude and determination. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, “Appreciate the advice from Smoke. He’s a mentor I look up to. But I’ve always known how to dig deep. I’m gonna keep grinding.”
The post generated widespread attention across the NASCAR community, with fans applauding both Stewart’s honesty and Larson’s resolve. Many online began referring to Larson as “Smoke 2.0,” a nickname once reserved exclusively for Stewart. The comparison isn’t just symbolic — both drivers have won across various motorsport platforms and brought a bold, no-fear attitude to every track they enter.
Still, some fans echoed Stewart’s concern. The grueling nature of the NASCAR season, combined with Larson’s added commitments in dirt racing and open-wheel events, has raised questions about longevity and risk. The upcoming Memorial Day weekend double — competing in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day — has only been completed successfully by a few drivers in history, and it demands not only physical stamina but immense mental focus.
“Tony’s not wrong,” wrote one fan. “We all love watching Kyle compete everywhere, but the man’s human. Hope he listens.”
As Larson prepares for the upcoming Würth 400 at Texas Motor Speedway, the pressure continues to mount. He remains a strong contender for the 2025 Cup Series title, and his aggressive driving style has made him a fan favorite. But with the growing workload, even the most resilient athletes can face breaking points — something Stewart knows firsthand.
The former champion’s words were not meant to discourage, but to protect. “I’m proud of what Kyle’s doing — it’s historic,” Stewart said in closing. “But I just hope he knows when to take a breath. Sometimes backing off a little saves your career.”
With the season in full swing and Larson showing no signs of letting up, Stewart’s warning may serve as a critical moment of reflection for NASCAR’s top driver. Whether Larson heeds the advice or continues to forge ahead at full throttle remains to be seen — but one thing is clear: the spotlight, and the pressure, have never been brighter.
