Kyle Larson is contemplating the challenging feat of racing in the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day but acknowledges the logistical hurdles that have so far blocked his attempts. Larson, a NASCAR star, confesses he isn’t focusing on the failed bid to complete the grueling 1,100-mile ‘Double,’ a task successfully completed only by Tony Stewart in 2001.
“I’m not ruling out a future attempt at the 500,” Larson expressed, indicating that his renewed focus might happen once his NASCAR career winds down. He emphasized his admiration for the event, calling it an extraordinary spectacle that garners immense excitement worldwide. Still, he recognized the impracticality of attempting the double feat at this stage due to potential delays impacting the schedule.
Interestingly, Larson acknowledged having what’s been called a “Double” hangover following last weekend’s trials. He had recently visited Mexico to assess the conditions for an upcoming NASCAR event, and the combination of travel and illness seemed to have taken a toll, prompting a recovery period on Friday.
Previously, Larson’s first go at this motorsport endeavor in 2024 was thwarted by rain delays at Indianapolis, leaving him unable to fulfill his race plans. Subsequent challenges included a crash on Lap 91 during this year’s Indianapolis 500, followed by another setback in Charlotte, where his day ended early due to a wreck.
Reflecting on others who’ve tried, including John Andretti, Robby Gordon, and Kurt Busch, Larson admitted the unpredictability of weather and race incidents makes the challenge intense. He believes the schedule for the Indy 500, which starts early on the West Coast, and the Coca-Cola 600, which can stretch well into the night, leaves little room for flexibility.
Despite these challenges, Larson admires the accomplishments of those like Stewart who managed to complete both races under near-perfect conditions. “It’s a remarkable achievement, possible only with a dash of precision luck,” Larson noted, as he considers his future in both racing events.