Kevin Harvick Backs a New Favorite for NASCAR’s Most Popular Driver—and It’s Not Chase Elliott

By Alexandra Lange | Athlon Sports | Updated April 15, 2025

Each year, NASCAR fans vote for their favorite driver, and for the past seven seasons, Chase Elliott of Hendrick Motorsports has taken the title, continuing the legacy of his father, who won it a record sixteen times. But this year, another HMS driver might be ready to take the spotlight.

On his Happy Hour podcast, former driver and current analyst Kevin Harvick broke down the recent race at Bristol and gave high praise to Kyle Larson, calling his performance a “clinic.” Harvick went further, declaring Larson the current most popular driver in the Cup Series.

“Right now, Kyle Larson is the most popular driver out there,” Harvick said.

His co-host, Mamba Smith, was caught off guard by the claim, but Harvick stood by it, citing Larson’s success in merchandise sales, frequent racing, and strong performances. “He races more, wins more, and connects with fans,” Harvick explained.

Earlier in the show, Harvick also commended the 2021 Cup Series champ for showing more of his personality this season, which he believes has helped Larson resonate even more with fans.