McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown recently hinted at the exciting possibility of Kyle Larson testing Formula 1 machinery, noting that the talented Hendrick Motorsports driver has been in discussions with the team. Brown indicated that a test session “will happen down the road,” suggesting that Larson might soon make his debut behind the wheel of an F1 car. Larson has showcased remarkable versatility across various racing series, yet he has not yet had the opportunity to drive an F1 vehicle. His involvement with McLaren’s IndyCar program has fueled speculation about Brown’s interest in allowing the star NASCAR driver a chance to experience F1.
During a recent appearance on Kevin Harvick’s podcast, “Happy Hour,” Harvick brought up the idea of Larson testing an F1 car. He expressed the excitement among fans who are eager to see how the #5 Hendrick Motorsports driver would perform in the world of Formula 1. In response, Brown confirmed that he has indeed been in talks with Larson about this opportunity. He reminisced about a similar experience from 2018 when seven-time Cup champion Jimmie Johnson and two-time F1 champion Fernando Alonso swapped cars in Bahrain, which was a thrilling event for both drivers and their fans.
Brown explained that scheduling remains a challenge, as both Larson and the McLaren team have busy calendars. He noted, “We’ve been chatting about it. Kyle, as you can imagine, definitely wants to do it in between our schedule, which goes from February to December, and NASCAR’s schedule, which is typically February to November.” Finding an appropriate window for Larson to test an F1 car requires careful planning, but Brown is optimistic that it can be arranged.
Reflecting on past experiences, Brown expressed his enthusiasm for seeing Larson in an F1 car. He referenced the enjoyable swap between Johnson and Alonso and indicated that he would love to facilitate a similar opportunity for Larson. “It is something that we’ve discussed and something that I think will happen down the road,” Brown added.
In addition to Johnson and Alonso’s swap, there was another memorable exchange in 2011 when Tony Stewart and former McLaren driver Lewis Hamilton traded rides. Although these events took place before Brown took the reins at McLaren, they underscore a tradition of cross-series collaboration and excitement within the racing community. With growing comparisons between Larson and reigning F1 champion Max Verstappen, an F1 test would provide an ideal platform to showcase Larson’s undeniable talent in single-seater racing.
Furthermore, after collaborating with Larson during the Indy 500, Brown drew parallels between Larson and two-time F1 champion Fernando Alonso. He highlighted the championship qualities exhibited by both drivers during their Indy 500 debut. Brown noted how both Larson and Alonso approached race day with a steady demeanor, gradually building confidence in their abilities. “He’s as naturally talented as any racing driver as I’ve ever seen. I saw this a lot out of Fernando when I brought him to the Indy 500,” he remarked.
Brown emphasized the calmness both drivers displayed, indicating that nothing seemed to happen too quickly for them. They could compartmentalize their focus, knowing where they needed to be on race day while taking each day as it came. This mindset prevented them from getting overly concerned with time sheets or allowing the pressure of the moment to overwhelm them. Brown’s admiration for Larson’s talent is evident, as he described him as “unbelievably quick” and noted that he performed flawlessly during the preparations leading up to the Indy 500.
The potential for Larson to test an F1 car is not only an opportunity for him personally but also a significant moment for the racing community, which is keen to see how he would adapt to the unique demands of Formula 1. Brown’s enthusiasm and the conversations surrounding this possibility illustrate the excitement and intrigue within the motorsport world. As fans eagerly await further developments, the prospect of seeing Kyle Larson take to the track in an F1 car remains a tantalizing possibility that could bridge the gap between NASCAR and Formula 1, showcasing Larson’s remarkable skills on a global stage.
EXCITING: Zak Brown Teases Kyle Larson’s Potential F1 Debut in Kevin Harvick Chat!
