After Kyle Larson failed to finish both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day, he now stands at 0-2 in his attempts at the demanding Indy-Charlotte double. NASCAR veteran Kevin Harvick has publicly recommended that Larson should prioritize NASCAR racing rather than continuing to split his focus.
Harvick expressed his opinion on the Happy Hour podcast, stating,
“At this point, he just needs to focus on the NASCAR side of it,”
and added,
“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.”
Mental Strain and Confidence Issues Impacting Performance
Harvick also analyzed the psychological challenges Larson faced while attempting the grueling double, explaining how confidence plays a major role in a driver’s success.
“If they would have went like they did last year, I think he would have been confident. 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,”
Harvick remarked.
“I’m happy that he did it. I think it was great for racing. I hope it’s the last time.”
Kyle Larson Admits the Double is Logistically Challenging
Larson himself acknowledged the extreme difficulty of competing in both events on the same day. Speaking after the Coca-Cola 600, he noted the tight schedule made the attempt nearly impossible.
“The ‘double’ is just a tough undertaking. The window of time is too tight,”
Larson said, continuing,
“Even if I didn’t wreck, I don’t think I would have made it here on time and probably would have had to end that race short anyways.”
He further indicated that while he would love to return to the Indy 500, the logistics of the double may simply be too challenging to repeat.
“So, I don’t really think it’s worth it. But I would love to run the Indy 500 again. Just doing the ‘double’ I think is just logistically too tough.”
Recognition for Larson’s Effort Despite Results
Although Larson did not finish either race, his ambition and willingness to take on the demanding double is impressive in its own right. His attempt demonstrates commitment and drive, even if it comes with significant risks and challenges. This experience could shape how Larson approaches his racing calendar going forward.
Implications and Future Considerations for Larson’s Career
With advice coming from respected figures like Kevin Harvick and an honest evaluation from Larson himself, it seems likely that Larson may step back from pursuing the Indy-Charlotte double in the future. Focusing on NASCAR racing, where he has already proven his talent as the 2021 Cup Series champion, could allow him to concentrate his energy and maximize his success. The double remains a difficult feat that only a few drivers attempt, and Larson’s acknowledgment of the logistical difficulties adds to the growing sentiment that focusing on one discipline may be the wiser choice.
