July 13, 2026 — Kyle Larson’s hopes for a strong run at the Quaker State 400 were dashed after two spins, including a late-race collision with Denny Hamlin that sent him to the infield grass. The Hendrick Motorsports driver finished 34th in the 200-lap race, won by Ryan Blaney, after a day marked by two costly mistakes.
**What Happened in Larson’s Late-Race Collision?**
Larson’s day unraveled on lap 255 when he made contact with Hamlin while racing side-by-side. The move sent Larson spinning into the wall, while Hamlin—who had been running near the front—settled for 12th. Earlier, on lap 242, Larson had already spun out after Tyler Reddick’s Turn 4 incident, though that wreck caused only minor damage.
**Why Did Larson’s Day Go Wrong?**
The first spin came after Reddick’s checkup on Turn 4, which triggered a minor pileup. Larson’s car slid into the grass, but he avoided serious damage. The second incident, however, was more costly. Racing tightly with Hamlin, Larson’s move appeared aggressive, and the contact ended his day immediately.
**How Did the Rest of the Field React?**
Blaney dominated the race, winning all three stages and securing his second victory of the season. Christopher Bell’s late push for second place—just 0.068 seconds behind—kept the race close until the final laps. Meanwhile, Larson’s struggles came as a setback for Hendrick Motorsports, which has been chasing consistency this year.
**What’s Next for Larson?**
With the Quaker State 400 now in the rearview, Larson will look to rebound at the next event. His two spins in one race are a rare misstep for a driver known for his speed, but NASCAR’s unpredictable nature means even the best can have off days. Fans will watch closely to see if Larson can shake off the frustration and return to form.
