The NASCAR Cup Series celebrates its 77th season, and Larry McReynolds has been an integral part of its journey for over five decades. On Sunday, he will lead the field to the green flag as pace car driver at the Quaker State 400 at Echopark Speedway—a fitting role for the 67-year-old who remains as engaged as ever. Despite his age, McReynolds shows no signs of slowing down, bringing his expertise as a two-time Daytona 500-winning crew chief and FOX Sports analyst to the forefront.
In a candid interview with Motorsport.com, McReynolds opens up about his recent health battle, the sport’s evolving landscape, and his perspective on the 23XI Racing lawsuit. The conversation offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a man who has shaped NASCAR’s narrative for generations.
Motorsport: You’ve faced health challenges earlier this year. How are you feeling now?
Larry McReynolds: I’m doing well, and I’ve been open about recovering from Bell’s palsy, a condition I was diagnosed with in March. I felt unwell the morning of the Circuit of the Americas race, felt fatigued during the broadcast, and sought medical attention afterward. Steroids helped me recover rapidly—I was back to normal within two weeks. My takeaway? Don’t delay treatment if symptoms arise.
Motorsport: Atlanta Motor Speedway honored you this weekend, and Quaker State has been part of your journey for years. How does that connection feel?
McReynolds: It’s personal. My partnership with Quaker State began in the mid-1980s when I served as crew chief for Kenny Bernstein’s team. Those early victories built a legacy that still resonates today. When Echopark’s president asked me to drive the pace car, I couldn’t resist—the chance to merge my past and present roles while engaging directly with fans was too good to pass up.
Motorsport: What does the pace car role require?
McReynolds: There’s one rule I must follow: I cannot lower the green flag. Speed is key—55 mph normally, but I’ll need to adjust to 45 mph on pit road. I’ll gain clarity after my pre-race walkthrough, but I’m ready to embrace the responsibility.
Motorsport: Many expect you to slow down, yet you remain as active as ever. What drives you?
McReynolds: I simply love what I do. My days start early preparing for my radio show, and I’m energized by the people and places the sport brings me. Retirement only happens when the joy fades—and that day is nowhere near the horizon. I thrive on staying current, whether analyzing races or calling them as a guest crew chief.
Tyler Reddick, 23XI Racing, Denny Hamlin, Michael Jordan
Photo by: Sean Gardner / Getty Images
Motorsport: Your opinions on the 23XI lawsuit were clear. Has the resolution changed your stance?
McReynolds: We’ve moved past the conflict, but a friendship hasn’t emerged—that wasn’t the foundation of our relationship before. I maintain the lawsuit was detrimental, as it overshadowed meaningful discussions about the sport’s direction. The trial consumed months that could have focused on drivers like Connor Zilisch or new car developments. While I questioned the timing, I now appreciate the settlement, as it prevents external forces from shaping NASCAR’s future through doubt.
Motorsport: Where do you see NASCAR in a decade?
McReynolds: The sport’s transformation won’t stop. The 2022 chassis—a standardized, cost-controlled design—was unthinkable 15 years ago. Today, over 300 standardized components streamline competition and reduce spend. Change will accelerate, especially with engine innovations and evolving engineering. What captivates me most is the schedule’s unpredictability; fans once expected minor tweaks, but we now witness bold venue shifts and strategic overhauls. While I once feared NASCAR lacked forward-thinking leadership, the current team—Steve O’Donnell, Ben Kennedy, and others—has revitalized the sport. They’re not reinventing wheels but refining a formula built for growth.
McReynolds’ optimism reflects a broader narrative: NASCAR’s identity is fluid, shaped by those who dare to evolve. Whether analyzing races or mentoring young talent, his commitment remains unwavering—a testament to a career defined by passion and persistence.