At Charlotte Motor Speedway’s media center, Kyle Larson unveiled his ambitious plans to tackle the legendary Indianapolis 500 as well as the grueling Coca-Cola 600, both on May 25 next year. This comes after an incomplete bid last year where poor weather and a late penalty thwarted Larson’s race.
Last year, Larson’s Indy 500 attempt saw him finishing 18th in a rain-delayed race, unable to start the Coca-Cola 600 due to persistent weather interruptions. Despite these setbacks, Larson left an indelible mark by clinching the Rookie of the Year honor and setting a record qualifying lap speed of 233.43 mph, securing him a fifth-place start.
“I wanted to do the double I didn’t get to do. Really, everybody involved wanted to see it happen as well. Glad we get to run through it again,” Larson shared.
Joining Larson at the media center were figures such as Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports; Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman; Zak Brown, McLaren Racing CEO; and Tony Kanaan, Indy 500 coach, proving the comprehensive support bolstering Larson’s bid.
The team’s collaboration from the previous year yielded not only rich sponsorship returns but also invaluable technical insights which will help propel them up the grid next year.
Reflecting on Larson’s previous performance, Rick Hendrick heaped praise on the driver and team.
“Kyle had a great month of May and showed what a gifted race car driver he is. From a sponsorship perspective, we saw an incredible lift for HendrickCars.com and measured a three-to-one return on our investment. It was a monumental effort by all involved, but we didn’t have the opportunity to see it through (because of inclement weather).
“Everyone learned a great deal that we’ll take into next year. Now that we’ve experienced it once, we know what to expect, which can only make us better and more prepared. Zak and the team at Arrow McLaren are tremendous partners, and we’re looking forward to finishing the job together in 2025.”
Zak Brown echoed this sentiment, expressing optimism for the 2025 races.
“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.
“He’s one of the most talented racing drivers out there, and it’s a privilege to do this again with Mr. Hendrick and Jeff Gordon, who are both world-class. We can’t wait for May.”
Larson’s ambition for the doubleheader is buoyed by a deep-seated belief in his capabilities and the strength of his team.
“I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t feel like I had the opportunity to win both races. 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,” he stated confidently.
“I love to race and I love to compete in big events. Had it gone perfect logistically and all that, I think I would still want to do it for sure because I wouldn’t have won the Indy 500. I would like the chance to someday win it.
“It’s not a different style of race, so I feel very experienced there and I feel like someday I could win, so, just the stars have to align.”
He continued:
“I think with a year of experience, hopefully, we’ll be even more competitive and I’m super confident in the NASCAR side of things that we can go (to Charlotte) and win. It’s just going to be great to finally have that opportunity again and hopefully, the weather cooperates a little better,” he ended.
