Preparing for his Indianapolis 500 debut next month, Kyle Larson faces the challenge of racing in any car on any track at any time. Larson, the 2021 NASCAR Cup champion, has set his sights on completing the Memorial Day weekend double, which involves racing 1,100 miles in Indianapolis and Charlotte, North Carolina, on the same day. Despite this being his first time at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Larson quickly showcased his skills by posting the second-fastest lap in morning practice, with a speed of 226.384 mph, just behind Josef Newgarden’s 228.811 mph.
While today’s racing drivers tend to specialize in specific formats, Larson’s willingness to compete in various racing disciplines recalls the era of legends like A.J. Foyt and Mario Andretti. However, adapting to the nuances of faster and lighter IndyCars presents its own unique challenges. During his last trip to Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Larson needed approximately 2 1/2 hours to pass the rookie test before spending the rest of the afternoon running at top speed. He also became aware of certain spots on the track where overconfidence or wind gusts could lead to accidents.
Despite these challenges, Larson has shown great potential. His recent performance at Martinsville, where he finished second in a NASCAR race, indicates that he is fully capable of handling high-pressure situations. Larson’s experience testing the Arrow McLaren No. 17 Chevrolet in Phoenix earlier this year also helped him become more comfortable with pushing the car to its limit. As he continues to fine-tune his skills in preparation for the double, Larson emphasizes the importance of learning how to navigate traffic, communicate with his team, and make strategic decisions during the race.
However, the recent open testing was not without its setbacks. The cool and overcast weather conditions led to intermittent rain showers and track closures, preventing Larson from consulting with his teammates and driver coach Tony Kanaan, who won the Indy 500 in 2013. Despite these interruptions, Larson remains confident that he has enough time to familiarize himself with the track and improve his strategy before race day.
Additionally, Larson is also faced with the logistical challenge of balancing his IndyCar commitments with his full-time Cup duties in Charlotte. However, IndyCar veterans believe that Larson has ample time to adjust and refine his strategy. Pato O’Ward, a four-time IndyCar winner, expressed his respect for Larson’s determination and called him a true racer.
As Larson continues his preparations for the Indianapolis 500, fans eagerly anticipate seeing how he will fare in the race. His versatility and willingness to take on new challenges have already impressed many within the racing community. With his impressive skills and the support of his team, Larson may just become the fifth driver to successfully complete the double.