Fans are well aware that Kyle Larson, the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion, was left dejected over his failed attempt to “do the double” over Memorial Day weekend. This refers to racing in the Indianapolis 500 and then again at the NASCAR Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
This failed attempt led fans to speculate that Larson was only going to give it one shot. His NASCAR team owner, Rick Hendrick, however, was quick to shut this down.
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Larson Will Attempt To ‘Do The Double’ Again
“We’re going to run the 600,” Hendrick said on Tuesday. “We will be here for the 600 if that means cutting the race short at Indy because of my commitment to NASCAR.”
Tony Kanaan will serve as relief driver if Hendrick is forced to pull Larson out of the 2025 Indy 500. However, this will likely only happen if a rain delay occurs in Indianapolis.
“We’re in NASCAR, and that’s where we run for the championship. If weather catches us, Tony will get in the car,” Hendrick said.
Hendrick was then asked if he would consider pulling Larson from the car if he is leading the 500.
“We’re going to be here,” he replied.
Larson spoke out about attempting to “do the double” again as well.
“I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t feel like I had the opportunity to win both races,” Larson said. “I know that’s a very difficult task but I know it can be done, especially being with a team like Arrow-McLaren and Hendrick Motorsports.”
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Larson’s Failed Attempt To ‘Do The Double’
Over this past Memorial Day weekend, rain in Indianapolis delayed the start to the Indy 500, where Larson ultimately finished in 18th place. He then flew to Charlotte, where the 600 had already begun. After not being able to turn a single lap at the 600, Larson required a special dispensation from NASCAR in order to compete in the 2024 championship.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown was quick to praise Larson for his effort, however.
“Kyle showed us all what he was capable of this past May, and given a second chance with better weather conditions, I think we’ll all be excited to see him fight for a win at the Indy 500 and then another one in Charlotte,” Brown said. “We can’t wait for May.”
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Larson Is Already Thinking About Memorial Day 2025
Larson has made it clear that he’s already focused on the next Memorial Day weekend.
“I love to race and I love to compete in big events. Had it gone perfect logistically, I think I would still want to do it for sure because I wouldn’t have won the Indy 500,” Larson said. “I would like the chance to someday win it. It’s not a different style of racing, so I feel very experienced there and I feel like someday I could win. The stars have to align.”
Larson is one of the most talented racers in NASCAR these days. If anyone can successfully “do the double,” it’s him. It will certainly be interesting to see how this turns out for Larson during Memorial Day weekend in 2025!
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