Kyle Larson Claims He’s a Better All-Around Driver Than Max Verstappen

NASCAR driver Kyle Larson has expressed confidence in his driving skills, asserting that he believes he's a more versatile driver than three-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen.

In a conversation with FloRacing's Kyle McFadden, Larson stated, "I know in my mind I am better than him as an all-around driver." He added that he doesn't think Verstappen could succeed in various motorsport disciplines that Larson has excelled in, such as sprint car racing, the Knoxville Nationals, the Chili Bowl, or a Cup race at Bristol. "There's probably no way I can go win a Formula 1 race at Monaco," Larson acknowledged, "but I think I'd have a better shot at him [doing what he does] than him doing what I do just because of the car element."

Larson's racing credentials include 27 NASCAR race victories and the 2021 Cup Series championship. He also competed in this year's Indy 500, finishing 17th for Arrow McLaren.

Verstappen, currently leading the Formula 1 drivers' standings with seven wins this season, responded to Larson's remarks with a composed reaction. When asked about the comments, Verstappen said with a smile, "That's fine. Everyone thinks their own way, right?" as reported by The Athletic's Luke Smith. Verstappen holds a 78-point lead as he aims for his fourth consecutive world championship.