Published 01/16/2023, 7:45 AM EST
For the past couple of weeks, there has been a bit of a dispute surrounding the Chili Bowl Nationals. This is largely to do with an unchanged purse, despite an increase in competition. Two-time champion Kyle Larson was understandably incensed at this scenario and boycotted the event. However, his Hendrick Motorsports teammate Alex Bowman was a bit more lenient towards the event. The #48 driver was a bit more focused on the atmosphere at the Chili Bowl Nationals.
Comparing it to a football game, Bowman told the NASCAR website, “I think the party is really what draws the big crowd. The pit area has as many people in it as the grandstands do. It’s a weeklong party with some racing attached to it. It’s like if you could tailgate at a football game in the grandstands. Everybody’s pit area has their own party, and you’re literally at the race track. The party is unlike anything else. The people are great. The atmosphere is great. It’s just fun.”
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
DIVE DEEPER
NASCAR Insider Confirms Rumors as He Puts Christopher Bell in Same Bracket as Kyle Larson for Their Chili Bowl Absence
Alex Bowman and Kyle Larson will be preparing for the new season
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
Of course, what’s done is done, so the attention will soon focus on the 2023 NASCAR Cup season. Larson evidently did not do a wonderful job of defending his 2021 Cup Series crown. Instead, it was Team Penske’s Joey Logano who triumphed in the 2022 campaign. So Kyle Larson will be keen to redeem himself and clinch his second title. Of course, the road to that will not be easy, as Bowman will also be motivated to try to bag his maiden Cup title.
Oct 22, 2022; Homestead, Florida, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Larson (5) during practice for the Dixie Vodka 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Additionally, there are contenders like teammates Chase Elliott and William Byron, who will be threats. Even drivers like Denny Hamlin, Kyle Busch, Logano himself, and many more, will be on the prowl.
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY: Hendrick Motorsports Star Kyle Larson Offers “American Flag” Merchandise to Fans Ahead of Christmas
Finally, there is Kevin Harvick, who is competing in his final NASCAR Cup Series season. Especially considering that Harvick will want to bow out on a high note. One thing is for sure, Larson will have his hands full with his rivals.