Kyle Larson’s prospects for the 2025 Indy 500 appear uncertain following a challenging beginning to his practice and qualifying sessions. Hendrick Motorsports’ driver has struggled to accumulate sufficient track time ahead of the race scheduled for May 25, raising serious doubts about his potential to win at Indianapolis. This scenario has prompted NASCAR Hall of Famer Kevin Harvick to openly question Larson’s ability to secure victory in this prestigious open-wheel event.
Larson made his debut in the Indy 500 during the 2024 season as part of his first attempt at the demanding Double Duty weekend, which involves competing in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600. Despite starting strong from the fifth position, Larson’s performance was hampered by a pit-lane speeding penalty, resulting in an 18th-place finish. Nevertheless, he earned the Rookie of The Year award for his efforts. For this season, however, Larson is slated to start much further back at 19th place, and many racing fans no longer consider him a top contender for the race win.
The situation has worsened as Larson experienced two crashes during his testing sessions, underscoring concerns about his readiness for the race. Reflecting on these developments, Kevin Harvick was quick to express skepticism about Larson’s ability to not only win but also complete the grueling 1,100-mile challenge of the Double Duty.
Harvick explicitly stated that Kyle Larson stands little chance of winning the Indy 500 this year given his struggles during the practice and qualifying periods. Harvick suggested that Larson’s realistic goal should shift towards simply finishing the race and excelling in the Coca-Cola 600 portion of the Double Duty.
Kevin Harvick Describes Larson’s Indy 500 Victory Prospects as Unlikely
Kevin Harvick articulated his doubts during his podcast, highlighting the difficulties Larson has faced so far. According to Harvick, Larson’s chances of winning at Indianapolis have diminished significantly due to his qualifying position and mishaps during practice.
I think the goal is to run the 1,100 miles. I don’t think he has a chance to win at Indy, Think, with the way they qualified and all the things that have happened this year, I think that hope is out of the picture. I think he can come back and be a real contender at the Coke 600 and just being able to finish on the lead lap at Indy and run all 1,000 miles and check that box is probably the most realistic goal for this year.
Kevin Harvick said on his Happy Hour Podcast.
Harvick’s view reflects a pragmatic assessment where Larson’s accomplishment would be measured by endurance and completion rather than outright victory. Finishing on the lead lap at Indy and excelling in the Coke 600 would mark his most feasible success under the present circumstances.
Uncertainty Surrounds Larson’s Enjoyment and Motivation This Season
Larson’s initial Double Duty attempt in 2024 was cut short due to weather delays that prevented him from racing in the Cox 600. Despite this setback and the crashes during Indy 500 testing, Larson remains confident about his performance prospects for the upcoming race. In contrast, Kevin Harvick senses a decline in Larson’s enthusiasm for the challenge this year compared to the previous season.
Harvick expressed doubts about Larson’s current mindset, noting that the driver might not be enjoying the experience as much, especially after the recent difficulties. He projected that Larson’s aim to compete for a win has likely faded early, yet remains curious about how Larson will proceed.
It doesn’t look like he’s having nearly as much fun this year as he did last year, with the couple crashes and everything that’s happening. It will be interesting to see if he moves forward with it after this year after it not being as much fun. … Expectations are high. Going from what he did last year to this year, the expectation is to go there and compete for a win. That was over early.”
Kevin Harvick noted.
This shift in Larson’s experience may impact his performance and decisions about continuing to pursue the grueling Double Duty challenge in the future.
Kyle Larson’s Chance to Match Historic Double Duty Feat
The Double Duty has been successfully completed only once in history by Tony Stewart in 2001, an achievement many consider extraordinary due to the physical and mental demands of racing two major events on the same day. If Larson can finish both races this year, it would be a significant accomplishment, especially given the obstacles he faces.
Larson appears committed to pushing himself in the Indy 500, suggesting this might be his final attempt at the Double Duty. His determination could offer a strong response to those who doubt his ability to perform under pressure and against the demanding schedule.
Kevin Harvick’s candid assessment lends a serious and reflective tone to discussions about Larson’s prospects, focusing on the practical realities behind the hype. Larson’s challenges at Indianapolis this year highlight how difficult it is to compete at the highest level in both NASCAR and IndyCar events, especially when early setbacks accumulate.
As the race day approaches, Larson’s performance will be closely watched by fans and critics alike, with many eager to see whether he can overcome the early difficulties and make a strong showing at the Indy 500 and beyond.
