One of the best drivers in the world,” Alex Palou unexpectedly uttered 11 shocking words of admiration for the unparalleled versatility of Legend Kyle Larson after open testing in Phoenix ahead of the NASCAR and INDYCAR crossover event on the oval track.
In the high-stakes world of motorsport, where rivalries often dominate headlines, moments of genuine respect stand out like rare beacons. Such a moment unfolded recently at Phoenix Raceway during the open testing sessions for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, as four-time champion Alex Palou offered high praise for NASCAR star Kyle Larson. Speaking to media after the test, Palou described Larson as “one of the best drivers in the world,” a declaration that carried extra weight given the context of the upcoming crossover event at the same oval track.
This admiration highlighted Larson’s extraordinary ability to excel across disciplines, a trait that has made him a legend in racing circles.
The Phoenix open test, held in mid-February 2026, served as crucial preparation for teams and drivers ahead of the much-anticipated NASCAR and INDYCAR collaboration weekend. INDYCAR drivers, including Palou, took to the 1-mile oval to dial in setups, gather data on tire wear, and adapt to the unique demands of short-oval racing. Laps were turned at impressive speeds, with INDYCAR cars showing their power advantage over NASCAR stock cars, clocking times several seconds quicker in comparable conditions.
The test not only provided valuable insights for the series’ return to Phoenix but also underscored the growing synergy between the two major American open-wheel and stock car worlds.
Palou, the dominant force in INDYCAR having secured multiple championships with Chip Ganassi Racing, was among those reflecting on the broader implications of cross-series respect. His words came amid discussions about versatility—the ability to jump between vastly different machinery, track types, and racing formats without missing a beat. Larson has long been celebrated for this quality. The 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion has proven his mettle not just in stock cars but also in sprint cars, midgets, and even his notable attempt at the Indianapolis 500.
His 2024 “double” effort—running both the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 on the same day—cemented his reputation as a driver who thrives under pressure and adapts seamlessly.
What made Palou’s comment particularly striking was its spontaneity and sincerity. The Spanish driver, known for his analytical approach and focus on performance, rarely dishes out effusive praise unless it’s earned. By calling Larson “one of the best drivers in the world,” Palou effectively placed him in an elite category that transcends series boundaries. The “11 shocking words” referred to in reports captured the essence of his admiration: a concise yet powerful endorsement of Larson’s rare talent to master diverse racing environments, from high-banked ovals to road courses and everything in between.
This praise arrives at a pivotal time for both series. The Phoenix crossover event, set to feature INDYCAR and NASCAR racing on the same weekend, represents a bold step toward greater collaboration. With FOX’s involvement and shared venues, fans are seeing more interaction between the two worlds. Drivers like Kyle Kirkwood have spoken positively about the exposure and fan draw such events provide, emphasizing that the collaboration feels cooperative rather than competitive. Palou himself noted the challenges of adapting INDYCAR cars to certain track elements, like high lines that risk bottoming out, but he expressed excitement about the shared spotlight.
Larson’s versatility is no accident. His background in dirt racing gave him an early foundation in loose, unpredictable handling, skills that translate well to both stock car sliding and the precise aero management required in INDYCAR. Observers have long marveled at how Larson can run inches from the wall on short tracks, maintain composure in traffic, and extract speed where others falter. His success in sprint cars—where he has numerous wins and titles—further demonstrates an innate feel for car control that few possess.
Palou’s recognition of this “unparalleled versatility” speaks to a truth many in the paddock already know: Larson is not just a NASCAR star but a generational talent capable of competing at the highest level anywhere.
For INDYCAR fans, hearing one of their own champions laud a NASCAR driver in such terms bridges the divide that has sometimes existed between the series. Palou’s words serve as a reminder that great driving is universal. Whether navigating the speedways of Daytona or the streets of Long Beach, the core elements—instinct, precision, and adaptability—remain the same. Larson’s ability to succeed across these realms elevates him beyond any single championship.
As the Phoenix crossover approaches, anticipation builds. The event promises close racing, potential surprises, and perhaps more cross-pollination of talent and ideas. Palou’s unexpected tribute adds an extra layer of intrigue, setting the stage for what could be a landmark moment in American motorsport. In an era where specialization often reigns, Larson’s boundary-breaking career—and the respect it commands from peers like Palou—proves that true greatness knows no series limits.
The testing at Phoenix was more than just setup work; it was a showcase of preparation for a future where INDYCAR and NASCAR share more than just calendars. Drivers from both sides are learning from one another, and compliments like Palou’s foster goodwill. For Larson, already a legend in NASCAR with multiple titles and iconic wins, such acclaim from an INDYCAR powerhouse reinforces his status as one of the most complete drivers of his generation.
In the end, motorsport thrives on competition, but it is elevated by mutual admiration. Alex Palou’s 11 words of praise for Kyle Larson’s versatility capture that spirit perfectly. As the engines fire up for the crossover weekend, fans can look forward to seeing these worlds collide—not as rivals, but as part of a shared celebration of speed and skill.
