Kyle Larson’s ambition to conquer the Double Duty challenge once more is a thrill for racing, according to NASCAR legend Kevin Harvick. Larson, a driver for Hendrick Motorsports, is eager to return to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and kiss the iconic bricks after a win in an open-wheel car.
The 2021 Cup Series champion recently celebrated his first Brickyard 400 victory on the famous 2.5-mile IMS Oval, adding another prestigious title to his name. Following the tradition, Larson kissed the bricks at the start/finish line. After this triumph, he hinted at a second attempt at the Indy 500 next year.
Larson’s previous Double Duty attempt saw him start the Indy 500 from fifth place, but he finished 18th with Arrow McLaren’s #17 car. The race was delayed due to bad weather, preventing Larson from reaching the Charlotte Motor Speedway for the Coca-Cola 600 in time. Justin Allgaier was set to fill in for Larson, but the race was eventually canceled, marking a tough day for the Californian driver.
Despite these setbacks, Larson remains enthusiastic about returning to the Indy 500. Speaking on Harvick Happy Hour, he expressed his desire to kiss the bricks in an IndyCar. “How about we come back next May and try to kiss these bricks on the IndyCar?” he said. “I’d love to, we’ll work on it so I hope we can announce something soon and see you guys next May.”
Harvick praised Larson’s determination and versatility in racing. “He races more than anybody on Earth and he’s successful in everything that he does,” Harvick said. “I think it’s great for our sport, it’s not only great for our sport, it’s great for racing and I want to see him back at the Indy 500.”
If plans proceed smoothly, Larson will get another shot at the Double Duty challenge. His extensive experience with doubleheader races could make his future efforts even more promising.
Larson’s initial attempt at the Indy-Charlotte Double was marred by various challenges. Only four drivers had previously attempted this grueling 1100-mile endeavor, with Tony Stewart being the sole driver to complete both races. Despite a strong start, Larson faced difficulties during the 200-lap Indy 500. A spin-off during an early restart dropped him to 14th, and a speeding penalty on Lap 131 further hindered his progress. A poor pitstop strategy forced him to pit with just five laps remaining, ending his race in 18th place.
Reflecting on his Indy 500 experience, Larson shared his disappointment on social media, acknowledging the immense effort his team put into the race. “So much time, money, and effort went into this experience and it just kills me to have it all end the way it did. I feel like I let so many people down. We knew all along weather could throw a wrench into things but seeing it come to reality is a horrible feeling,” he wrote.
Currently, Larson is focused on winning his second regular season title and delivering a strong performance in the playoffs.
