During Memorial Day weekend, Kyle Larson, the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion, once again attempted the challenging Indy 500-Coke 600 double but failed to complete the full 1,100 combined miles after early crashes at both events. Veteran driver Kevin Harvick offered his perspective, advising Larson to abandon this demanding double and concentrate exclusively on his NASCAR career to regain confidence and performance.
Kevin Harvick Critiques Larson’s Double Duty Attempt and Recommends Refocusing on NASCAR
Kyle Larson’s bid to race both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 for the second year in a row ended prematurely. Larson crashed early at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and suffered two separate collisions during the Charlotte race, leaving him unable to finish either event. Kevin Harvick, the 2014 NASCAR Cup Series champion, spoke candidly on the Happy Hour podcast about Larsen’s struggles during these demanding races.
At this point, he just needs to focus on the NASCAR side of it. I think if he went to IndyCar and just ran the IndyCar schedule full-time, he’d go over there and be fine. It’s great that he can do it, but I think it took away from the NASCAR side of it this week with the circumstances. If they would have went like they did last year, I think he would have been confident.
—Kevin Harvick, Happy Hour podcast
Harvick pointed out that balancing both series is taxing and suggested that Larson is spreading himself too thin. Now that Larson’s contract with Arrow McLaren has ended, the veteran believes the Hendrick Motorsports driver should dedicate his efforts to a full NASCAR season. Harvick also noted the impact Larson’s IndyCar detour had on his mindset and results, implying that a full commitment to one discipline could yield better outcomes.
The Mental Toll of the Indy 500 Impacted Larson’s Performance at Charlotte
Kevin Harvick emphasized that Larson’s crash at the Indy 500 deeply affected his confidence, which influenced his aggressive approach at the Coke 600 race. Larson’s eagerness to redeem himself led to pushing beyond safe limits, ultimately causing trouble on the track. This illustrates how even top-tier drivers can be negatively influenced by the pressure and mental strain of high-profile setbacks.
He stepped over the limit a couple times and got himself in trouble, just wanting to rebound and show everybody from the Indy 500 scenario that he was the man. He’s still the man. But even the guys like Kyle Larson can be affected by that confidence piece that goes with the driving, and how you think the process that you go through.
—Kevin Harvick
Harvick highlighted how a dip in confidence can cause drivers to take unnecessary risks, hindering their performance. Despite Larson’s undeniable skill, this mental element played a significant role in sidelining his results over Memorial Day weekend.
Advice for Larson’s Future in Indy 500 and NASCAR Racing
Harvick shared that if Larson wishes to race the Indianapolis 500 again, he should carefully consider how to approach it. Potential options include following the route of Jimmie Johnson by competing in the Indy 500 after retiring from full-time NASCAR, or dedicating himself full-time to IndyCar racing. In either case, the double-duty scenario seems unsustainable based on recent experiences.
But even the best, when the confidence gets knocked down and you know you want to do great things, you can mentally talk yourself into doing things you shouldn’t and step over that line. I’m happy that he did it. I think it was great for racing. I hope it’s the last time.
—Kevin Harvick
While Harvick acknowledged that Larson’s attempt added excitement to racing, he expressed hope that Larson would not repeat the grueling schedule. Maintaining focus on NASCAR, according to Harvick, could restore Larson’s mental edge and prevent the complications witnessed during this latest attempt.
Kyle Larson Reflects on Double Duty Challenges Amid Negotiations
Following the races, Larson hinted that he might take Harvick’s advice to step back from trying the double again on a tight timetable. The back-to-back setbacks in Indianapolis and Charlotte have complicated his prospects for negotiating future dual-race plans. Larson indicated that if he returns to the Indianapolis 500, the schedule would likely be more accommodating, allowing better preparation and recovery.
Kyle Larson’s struggles over Memorial Day weekend reveal the physical and mental demands involved in attempting the Indy 500-Coke 600 double. Meanwhile, Kevin Harvick’s insights highlight the importance of confidence and focus to a driver’s success, suggesting that Larson’s best path forward lies in dedicating himself to the NASCAR circuit for sustained performance and growth.
