Kyle Larson has consistently shown his prowess at Homestead-Miami Speedway, a track where running close to the wall is crucial for speed. In 2022, Larson dominated the Dixie Vodka 400, leading 199 laps and securing his first win at the track. This performance was a testament to his skill in navigating the high line, a technique that not many drivers can master.

Joey Logano, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, has a deep appreciation for Larson’s ability to ride the wall. Logano, who has had his share of success at Homestead with a streak of top-6 finishes from 2015 to 2019, including a win in 2018, acknowledges that Larson is on another level. “You should ask Kyle Larson. He’s really, really, really good at it,” Logano said, highlighting Larson’s exceptional skill.

Logano also praised Tyler Reddick and Ryan Blaney for their ability to run close to the wall, but noted that Larson stands out. The introduction of the Next-Gen car has been a game-changer, allowing drivers to survive minor mistakes by absorbing rear-impact energy better. This design change has contributed to Larson’s consistency and speed, as he can now push the limits without worrying about severe damage from small errors.

Larson’s dominance is evident in the numbers. He has led 296 laps in the three Next-Gen races at Homestead-Miami, showcasing his mastery of the track. At Darlington in 2024, Larson led an impressive 263 laps, winning both stages, though he finished fourth due to other factors.

Tyler Reddick, another driver praised by Logano, has also shown his prowess at Homestead. In October 2023, Reddick spoke about his experience with the composite body of the Next-Gen car, which allows him to “wear the wall out” and understand its limits. This skill was crucial in his performance at Homestead, where he made a double overtake on the last lap to secure his spot in the Championship Four.

As the NASCAR Cup Series heads to Phoenix Raceway, Joey Logano is focused on the present, not dwelling on past successes. Despite his impressive record at Phoenix, including three wins and 15 top-10 finishes, Logano is aware of the challenges posed by new tires and pack racing dynamics. The introduction of Goodyear’s option tires is expected to mix up the competition, providing more opportunities for strategic racing.

Logano will start in the front row alongside pole-sitter William Byron, facing stiff competition from Ryan Blaney and Christopher Bell. As the drivers prepare for the 312-mile race, it’s clear that this season will be filled with exciting challenges and opportunities for all competitors.