The debate over who is the true “fourth car” at Rick Hendrick’s team has raged on for years. With a team full of superstars, it’s inevitable that someone will be given this title, but in today’s data-driven era, it’s easy to overlook the true value of a driver. As this debate is reignited once again, NASCAR fans are rushing to defend Rick Hendrick’s driver and prove that their career is far from over.
Rick Hendrick, the owner of Hendrick Motorsports, is widely regarded as one of the most successful team owners in NASCAR history. With a total of 12 Cup Series championships, including seven with Jimmie Johnson, Hendrick’s team is a powerhouse in the sport. However, in recent years, the focus has shifted to the team’s three main drivers: Chase Elliott, William Byron, and Alex Bowman, leaving the fourth driver to be overlooked.
But who exactly is the fourth driver at Hendrick Motorsports? Some argue that it’s rookie Kyle Larson, who joined the team in 2021 after being suspended for using a racial slur. Others believe it’s veteran driver, and fan favorite, Dale Earnhardt Jr., who retired from full-time racing in 2017 but still competes in select races for the team. And then there are those who argue that the true fourth driver is none other than Rick Hendrick himself.
Let’s start with Kyle Larson. After his suspension, many doubted if he would ever have a successful career in NASCAR again. But Hendrick took a chance on him, and it’s paying off. Larson has already won four races this season, including the prestigious Coca-Cola 600, and is currently leading the Cup Series standings. He has proven himself to be a valuable asset to the team and is showing no signs of slowing down.
On the other hand, Dale Earnhardt Jr. is a fan favorite and a legend in the sport. He may not be racing full-time anymore, but he still has a huge following and continues to bring in sponsorship money for the team. Plus, he has been instrumental in mentoring the younger drivers at Hendrick Motorsports, including Larson. Even though he’s not behind the wheel as often, Earnhardt Jr. is still a vital part of the team’s success.
And then there’s Rick Hendrick himself. As the owner of the team, he is responsible for putting together a winning combination of drivers, crew members, and equipment. He has an eye for talent and knows how to run a successful team. Without him, there would be no Hendrick Motorsports, and his leadership and guidance have been crucial to the team’s success.
But as the debate over the true fourth car continues, fans are quick to defend their favorite driver. They argue that Larson is proving himself as a top driver and deserves to be recognized as such. They also point out that Earnhardt Jr. may not be racing full-time, but he is still a valuable member of the team. And they remind everyone that Rick Hendrick’s expertise and leadership are what make the team so successful.
In the end, the debate over the fourth car at Hendrick Motorsports may never be settled. But one thing is for sure: all of the drivers and team members at Hendrick Motorsports are essential to the team’s success. Each one brings their own unique strengths and contributions, and without them, the team would not be the powerhouse it is today.
So, instead of focusing on who is the true fourth car, let’s celebrate the entire team and their accomplishments. They are all champions in their own right and deserve to be recognized for their hard work and dedication. As the season continues, let’s continue to support and defend Rick Hendrick’s driver, no matter who that may be. Because at the end of the day, it’s the team’s success that matters most, not individual titles or labels.