Kyle Larson Takes Over Full Ownership Of His Sprint Car Team
Kyle Larson Takes Over Full Ownership Of His Sprint Car Team
After four years of sharing the ownership duties with Justin Marks, Kyle Larson will take complete control of the team in 2018.
After four years as equal partners in Larson Marks Racing (LMR), Kyle Larson is taking over a full ownership role. Justin Marks will become an advisor for the new team. Kyle Larson Racing (KLR) will continue to field the No. 2 sprint piloted in the World of Outlaws Sprint Car series by driver Shane Stewart. Together Stewart and the team have accomplished 35 wins over four years.
As Marks assumes a new role, he’s confident that Larson is ready for to be the sole leader.
"I couldn't be more proud of what LMR has accomplished the past few years," said Marks. "I was always hopeful that Kyle would learn about team ownership and operation to the point where he could be comfortable taking this project on himself. He's ready for it and I'm looking forward to supporting him and KLR in the future."
Larson new leadership role will continue to tie him to Sprint racing as he continues to rise through the NASCAR ranks. In 2017, Larson won eight Sprint Car races, including an incredible streak of six in a row.
The announcement by Larson comes one day after fellow NASCAR contender Ryan Newman became part owner in Clauson Marshall Newman Racing.
"I am excited to make this change and take over the reins of the Sprint Car team," said Larson. "We have been very successful the past four seasons and it has been great working with Justin, Shane and all of the guys at LMR. It was always the plan for me to move to the forefront of our ownership group and the time is right to make this a natural step. Justin has taught me a lot about what it takes to be an owner. He has displayed great leadership and made this team to what it is today. I look forward to his continued involvement in our team."
Paul Silva will join the team out of Sacramento Ca as the General Manager on the newly formed team. Silva had been working with Larson this past year when Larson got the chance to return to his dirt racing roots. Silva will continue on as the crew chief when Larson races.
"I have had long relationships with both Kyle and Shane, both with a lot of success in racing," said Silva. "I hope to carry that over into my new role at Kyle Larson Racing. I'm really looking forward to getting to work with these guys and starting the season off on the right foot in Florida."
Silva is no stranger to Shane Stewart either as the duo has raced together in the past. Together they won two American Sprint Car Series National Championships.
"Adding Paul to the group we already have established will only bring more success to our team," said Stewart. "I think everyone having history together will make this transition extremely smooth. I am excited to see Kyle stepping up into this role. Justin has become a great friend and I am happy he will still be supporting the team."