High Limit Racing, the sprint car series co-owned by NASCAR star Kyle Larson and his brother-in-law Brad Sweet, is facing its biggest controversy yet. Explosive allegations from former technical director Kevin Nouse have cast doubt on the series’ integrity, sparking a heated debate within the motorsports world.
Nouse, who served as High Limit Racing’s technical director for just seven months before his dismissal in June 2024, took to social media to expose what he claims are serious lapses in rule enforcement and questionable practices within the organization. These claims, which directly implicate series director Mike Hess, have sent shockwaves through the sprint car racing community.
The Allegations: “Integrity Needs to Be a Priority”
Kevin Nouse began his revelations in a Twitter thread on December 27, 2024, accusing High Limit Racing of prioritizing convenience over integrity.
In one instance, Nouse claimed to have discovered a 1.25-inch wicker bill on a driver’s top wing during a post-race inspection, a violation of the series’ rules. He alleges that Hess, the series director, instructed him to ignore the infraction. Similarly, Nouse reported finding an engine equipped with two crank triggers, despite rules allowing only one. Again, he says he was told to “quit looking” for rule violations.
Nouse also recounted confiscating an MSD box—critical to a car’s electrical system—only to be told he couldn’t inspect it further.
“As a fan, driver, or official, I want to be sure the playing field is level,” Nouse stated. “The only way to ensure that is for these tracks and series to hire people with that mindset.”
High Limit Racing Responds
High Limit Racing has swiftly denied Nouse’s accusations, issuing a statement that emphasized their commitment to fair competition:
“High Limit Racing believes in a fair and equal playing field for all competitors. Any claims to the contrary are unjustified. We’re focused on the success of our inaugural international event and continuing to improve the sport of sprint car racing.”
The organization has also refrained from directly addressing Nouse’s specific allegations, instead focusing on its future plans, including expanding to an international level.
Motivations in Question: Whistleblower or Vendetta?
Critics argue that Nouse’s public allegations may stem from personal grievances rather than a genuine concern for the sport’s integrity. However, Nouse appears unshaken by the backlash, claiming he has no regrets about his decision to speak out:
“This entire experience took away that passion and made me realize I’m fine without it.”
His willingness to risk future opportunities in motorsports lends credibility to his claims for some, while others see it as an act of sabotage from a disgruntled former employee.
A Rising Star Under Pressure
The controversy couldn’t come at a worse time for High Limit Racing, which has quickly gained prominence since its launch in 2023. Founded by Larson and Sweet with the goal of elevating sprint car racing, the series has expanded its reach, recently hosting its first international event in Perth, Australia. The three-day competition offered a $100,000 prize, signaling the series’ ambitions to become a global force in motorsports.
Kyle Larson expressed his excitement over the expansion, saying,
“All of us at High Limit are excited to take the first step in expanding our brand to an international level.”
The series also has ambitious plans for 2025, with 60 races scheduled across the U.S. and potentially abroad.
What’s Next for High Limit Racing?
The allegations have left the motorsports world divided. While some demand an investigation into High Limit Racing’s practices, others dismiss the controversy as a storm stirred by personal animosity. Either way, the claims have put the series under intense scrutiny as it navigates its next chapter.
For Larson, Sweet, and their growing sprint car empire, the road ahead will require more than just international expansion—it will require rebuilding trust and ensuring the integrity of the sport they aim to elevate.
