Kyle Larson is at the center of motorsports attention as he attempts the challenging Indy 500 Coca-Cola 600 Double once again this Memorial Day weekend. This year, Larson’s Indy 500 Coca-Cola 600 double attempt carries increased anticipation after NASCAR released a playful video highlighting the unique challenges of competing in both the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Charlotte Motor Speedway events on the same day.
Dual Racing Roles Highlight Larson’s Versatility
For the second consecutive year, Larson is taking on the Double, driving the #17 Chevrolet for Arrow McLaren Racing during the 109th Indianapolis 500, an effort backed by Hendrick Motorsports and Prime Video. Later on race day, he will return to NASCAR competition behind the wheel of the #5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevy in the Coca-Cola 600. This collaboration between Arrow McLaren and Hendrick, referred to as #Hendrick1100, reflects a serious commitment to Larson’s bid to conquer both iconic races.
NASCAR’s Playful Video Highlights Larson’s Challenge and Verstappen Comparisons
On May 20, NASCAR released a humorous promotional clip showing Larson’s NASCAR and IndyCar personas interacting. The NASCAR version of Larson enters a room where his IndyCar counterpart waits, and they jokingly discuss the differences between open-wheel racing and stock cars. The IndyCar Larson also reminds his NASCAR self about last year’s pit road speeding penalty during the Double attempt, emphasizing that they are teammates.
“You’re right. We’re both going to get the Verstappen question.” —Kyle Larson’s NASCAR persona
This remark references a recent interview, where Larson claimed he is a better all-around driver than Max Verstappen, the reigning Formula 1 champion. Larson attributes this to his capability in various racing disciplines including dirt tracks, stock cars, and open-wheel racing.
Kyle Larson Clarifies His Comments on Driving Skills
Addressing his controversial statement, Larson explained to The Athletic that he never declared himself the greatest driver, but rather compared his versatility to Verstappen’s specialization in F1.
“People act like I’m the one who said, ‘I am the greatest race car driver in the world.’ I never said that. I just said, ‘I’m a better all-around driver than Max Verstappen.’And they took that as I said, ‘I’m the greatest in the world.’ Because for some reason, Max is considered the greatest in the world. So it’s funny.” —Kyle Larson
Max Verstappen responded instead with a balanced approach, acknowledging Larson’s comment during a recent F1 press conference and expressing interest in trying other racing formats after his F1 career.
Larson’s Grassroots Success Referenced in Spoof Video
The video ends on a lighthearted note as a third version, ‘Dirt Car Larson,’ arrives, highlighting Larson’s roots as the reigning Chili Bowl and sprint car champion. This nod to his diverse racing background adds to his image as a multifaceted competitor hard to match across motorsport disciplines.
Kyle Larson Poised for a Historic Finish at the Double
Larson’s return to the Indy-Charlotte Double attempt in 2025 marks a significant milestone. He is the first full-time NASCAR Cup Series driver since Kurt Busch in 2014 to qualify for both events. His preparation was supported by the unique partnership between Rick Hendrick and Arrow McLaren racing teams to deliver a competitive IndyCar entry.
During practice sessions leading up to the Indy 500, Larson demonstrated steady progress, frequently placing within the top ten and completing the highest number of laps in one practice week. Ultimately, he earned the 21st starting position with an average speed of 231.326 mph over four qualifying laps, behind pole sitter Robert Schwartzman of Prema Racing, who secured the top spot with a combined time of 02:34.645 and an average speed of 232.79 mph.
Refining Past Attempts and Aiming to Join Racing History
Last year’s Double was curtailed due to weather, preventing Larson from completing the Coca-Cola 600 after finishing 18th at Indianapolis despite a pit road speeding penalty. This year, he aims to avoid such setbacks and become only the second driver after Tony Stewart in 2001 to complete the entire 1,100 miles of both races on the same day. Achieving this feat would cement Larson’s place in racing history and showcase his endurance and skill.
The Significance of Larson’s Double Effort in Motorsport
Whether or not Kyle Larson completes both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600, his determination to tackle this punishing schedule underlines his commitment to pushing boundaries in motorsports. With few drivers willing to attempt the NASCAR and IndyCar double, Larson’s effort exemplifies the increasing crossover talent between racing disciplines and highlights the physical and mental challenges top drivers face during one of the sport’s most demanding weekends.
