Kyle Larson is preparing for his second attempt at the challenging “Double,” competing in the Indy 500 and the Coca Cola 600 on the same day this weekend. The Hendrick Motorsports driver recently discussed his career and the unique pressures of this feat during an interview with Pat McAfee, reflecting on his growing reputation in motorsports history.
Larson’s first Double attempt this year attracted substantial attention from fans nationwide, who traveled to Indianapolis to witness the event and support him. McAfee highlighted the excitement around the Hendrick driver’s endeavor, noting how many spectators showed up simply to watch him race. When asked about being called
“the best driver of cars in the last two-three generations,”
Larson responded thoughtfully, showing modesty despite the praise.
“It does make me feel really good, you know, when people compare me, like Tony Stewart or Mario Andretti, AJ Foyt, guys like that, but I try not to pay much attention to it just because I’m still only 32 and I feel like I got a lot of racing left in my career before I should be allowed to be in that category.” —Kyle Larson, Racing Driver
Larson also shared details about his early racing background, revealing that he began competing at a young age in California through go-karts and dirt track events before moving up to NASCAR. The Indy 500 had always been a race he aspired to run, which made his upcoming Double particularly meaningful.
Focus on improvement as Larson prepares for weekend’s biggest races
Looking ahead to his second Indy 500, Larson revealed where he intends to refine his performance. While confident in his current capabilities, he recognizes the need to enhance his vehicle’s balance and pit stop execution over the course of the race weekend.
“I want to continue to get my balance a bit better,”
Larson explained, adding,
“Do some more hot pit-in and more pitstop stuff and then just study some more film and get ready for the race on Sunday.” —Kyle Larson, Racing Driver
Tony Stewart, a racing legend and one of Larson’s personal heroes, has expressed optimism about Larson’s potential to successfully complete both demanding races. Stewart considers the Double’s total distance of around 1100 miles achievable for Larson and projects strong finishes in both events.
According to Stewart, Larson
“should be able to finish 6th or better in the 500, and 3rd or better in the 600,”
setting realistic yet ambitious targets based on Larson’s talent and preparation.
The significance of Larson’s Double attempt in the racing world
Kyle Larson’s second Indy 500 and Coca Cola 600 attempt highlights his evolving status among racing elites, and his willingness to take on this grueling challenge twice at a young age signals a promising future. Successful completion of the Double would further cement his reputation and contribute positively to Hendrick Motorsports’ legacy.
The effort to balance speed, endurance, and strategy across two different race formats demands both physical and mental strength. Larson’s reflective approach to preparation and respect for the sport’s legends underline his commitment to excellence as he continues to develop his career.
