In a rare moment of candor, NASCAR veteran AJ Allmendinger has opened up about his complex emotions toward Kyle Larson, admitting that he sometimes feels “jealousy and sadness.” The revelation offers a glimpse into the intense competitive mindset of NASCAR drivers and the emotional challenges they face in the sport.
Admiration and Envy: The Reality of NASCAR Competition
Allmendinger, known for his fiery passion and road course expertise, has experienced a career filled with highs and lows. Despite his own successes, including wins in the NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series, he acknowledged that watching Larson’s dominance at times evokes feelings of envy.
“Sometimes you feel that jealousy and sadness,” Allmendinger admitted. “You see someone like Kyle, who can jump into anything and be great at it—it’s hard not to feel that way.”
Larson, a former Cup Series champion, has built a reputation as one of the most versatile and talented drivers in motorsports. Whether it’s NASCAR, dirt racing, or even attempts at open-wheel racing, his ability to excel in different disciplines sets him apart. That level of success, Allmendinger admitted, can be tough to watch from the outside.
The Emotional Toll of Racing
The mental aspect of motorsports is often overlooked, but Allmendinger’s comments highlight the emotional rollercoaster that comes with being a professional driver. Every competitor in the garage has aspirations of winning races, contending for championships, and leaving a lasting legacy in the sport. However, the reality is that not everyone gets the same opportunities or finds the same level of success.
For Allmendinger, his career has taken a unique path. From open-wheel racing to NASCAR, to sports cars, and back again, he has fought to stay competitive in different series. While he has enjoyed some incredible moments, such as his emotional 2021 Cup Series win at Indianapolis, the struggle to remain at the top level of the sport is real.
Respect Despite the Jealousy
Despite his feelings of jealousy, Allmendinger made it clear that he holds deep respect for Larson and his abilities.
“It’s not about disliking Kyle or anything like that,” he explained. “It’s about wanting to be in those moments too—getting those chances, winning those races, and proving what you’re capable of.”
Larson’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular, but for many drivers, his success is also a reminder of the challenges and missed opportunities they face in their own careers.
A Reminder of the Passion That Drives NASCAR
Allmendinger’s honesty is refreshing in a sport where drivers often keep their emotions guarded. His words serve as a reminder that, beneath the helmets and fire suits, NASCAR drivers are just as human as the fans who cheer for them.
In the end, jealousy and sadness are just part of the emotions that come with competing at the highest level. But for Allmendinger, they are also what fuel his continued drive to succeed.
