Hendrick Motorsports reels from Larson and Elliott crashes at Daytona 500. Will they make themselves a laughing stock for rivals

Hendrick Motorsports entered the 2025 Daytona 500 with high expectations, boasting one of the most competitive lineups in NASCAR. However, the race quickly turned into a nightmare as both Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott found themselves involved in devastating crashes that ended their hopes of victory. The incident not only shook the team but also sparked criticism from fans and rivals alike. Some are now questioning whether Hendrick Motorsports, one of the most dominant teams in NASCAR history, is losing its edge.

While setbacks are nothing new in racing, the magnitude of these crashes and the potential long-term consequences for Hendrick Motorsports raise serious concerns. Will they be able to recover, or are they setting themselves up to be mocked by their fiercest competitors?

A Daytona 500 Disaster: What Went Wrong?

The Daytona 500 is always unpredictable, with high speeds, tight drafting, and frequent crashes defining the event. However, Hendrick Motorsports had hoped that 2025 would bring them a fresh start and a return to their winning ways. Instead, their race was marred by chaos, with both Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott suffering disastrous incidents that ended their chances before the checkered flag.

Larson’s crash was particularly shocking, as he had positioned himself among the frontrunners in the final stage of the race. Running in the lead pack, he made a move to the outside lane but was caught in a multi-car wreck that left his No. 5 Chevrolet battered and out of contention. Meanwhile, Chase Elliott’s day ended in heartbreak as well when an aggressive push from another competitor sent him spinning into the wall, taking him out of the race early.

Both incidents not only ended their personal hopes for victory but also marked a major blow for Hendrick Motorsports as a whole. Two of their biggest stars were out, leaving the team to watch from the sidelines as their rivals battled for the win.

The Fallout: Hendrick Motorsports Under Fire

Following the Daytona 500, criticism toward Hendrick Motorsports quickly began pouring in. NASCAR fans, analysts, and even rival teams were quick to point out the mistakes that led to the crashes, questioning the team’s ability to strategize and protect their top drivers.

One of the biggest criticisms came from fans who believe that Hendrick’s aggressive approach to superspeedway racing is backfiring. While pushing the limits is necessary to win in NASCAR, some argue that Larson and Elliott’s incidents were avoidable and stemmed from unnecessary risks.

Furthermore, the failures at Daytona raise concerns about the overall direction of the team. Hendrick Motorsports has long been known for its dominance, with a history of producing championship-caliber cars and drivers. However, recent inconsistencies and high-profile crashes have led some to wonder if they are losing their competitive edge.

Rival teams, particularly Joe Gibbs Racing and Team Penske, have wasted no time in capitalizing on Hendrick’s misfortune. Social media has been flooded with jokes and memes about the team’s Daytona disaster, with some suggesting that they have become the laughing stock of the season opener. While Hendrick Motorsports has thick skin, continued performances like this could erode their once-unshakable reputation.

Is Hendrick Motorsports losing its supremacy?

For years, Hendrick Motorsports has been synonymous with success in NASCAR. With multiple championships and countless race wins, they have consistently set the standard for excellence. However, the modern NASCAR landscape is more competitive than ever, and their recent struggles suggest that the gap between them and other powerhouse teams is shrinking.

One of the biggest concerns for Hendrick Motorsports moving forward is their ability to adapt to changing regulations and race dynamics. The Next Gen car, introduced in recent seasons, has leveled the playing field in many ways, allowing smaller teams to compete more effectively against traditional giants like Hendrick. If the team fails to adjust its strategies and improve its race execution, they could find themselves slipping further behind.

Additionally, questions about team leadership have begun to emerge. While Rick Hendrick’s organization has always been well-structured, some are beginning to question whether key decision-makers are making the right calls. Are they too reliant on their past success? Are they struggling to develop winning strategies under the new NASCAR rules? These are the questions that Hendrick Motorsports must answer if they hope to return to dominance.

Can Larson and Elliott rebound?

Despite the disappointing outcome at Daytona, both Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott remain two of the most talented drivers in NASCAR. While this setback is frustrating, they have the ability to bounce back and compete for wins throughout the rest of the season.

Larson, known for his aggressive and fearless racing style, has proven time and again that he can recover from adversity. His ability to win on multiple types of tracks makes him a constant threat, and he will likely use this setback as motivation moving forward.

Similarly, Elliott has shown resilience throughout his career. As a former Cup Series champion, he understands the ups and downs of the sport and knows how to overcome challenges. If he can regain his confidence and find consistency, he will remain one of the top drivers in the series.

Both drivers will need to lean on their experience and mental toughness in the weeks ahead. While Daytona was a disaster, the season is long, and there are plenty of opportunities for redemption.

What’s Next for Hendrick Motorsports?

Hendrick Motorsports now faces a critical period where they must prove that the Daytona 500 disaster was just a temporary setback rather than a sign of deeper problems.

The next few races will be crucial in determining whether the team can rebound. If they struggle again at upcoming events, the criticism will only grow louder, and the pressure will intensify. On the other hand, if Larson and Elliott can deliver strong performances in the next few weeks, much of the Daytona disappointment will be forgotten.

One key factor will be how the team responds internally. Communication between drivers, crew chiefs, and engineers will be essential in identifying what went wrong and implementing changes to prevent similar issues in the future. Adjustments in race strategy, car setups, and pit crew performance could all play a role in turning things around.

Furthermore, Hendrick Motorsports must ensure that its drivers remain focused and motivated. Crashes like the ones at Daytona can be demoralizing, but great teams find ways to use adversity as fuel for future success. Larson and Elliott will need to channel their frustration into determination, using this setback as an opportunity to prove their doubters wrong.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Hendrick Motorsports

The 2025 Daytona 500 was a nightmare scenario for Hendrick Motorsports, with crashes sidelining both Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott in dramatic fashion. While some are now questioning whether the team is losing its dominance, the true test will be how they respond moving forward.

If Hendrick Motorsports can quickly recover and start delivering strong results, this incident will be remembered as just a minor setback. However, if their struggles continue, they risk becoming the target of ridicule from rivals who are eager to claim the top spot in NASCAR.

The coming weeks will reveal whether this was just an unfortunate race or a sign of deeper problems within the team. For now, Hendrick Motorsports must regroup, refocus, and prove that they are still a force to be reckoned with in NASCAR’s ever-evolving landscape.