Kyle Larson: Indy 500 Priority as Storm Threatens Double Header

NASCAR star Kyle Larson faces tough decision as storm delays Indianapolis 500, jeopardizing his chance to complete "The Double."

Kyle Larson expressed his determination to prioritize the Indianapolis 500 despite a severe storm causing a delay in the race start, potentially jeopardizing his chances of completing both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte on the same day.

As fans were evacuated from the grandstands at Indianapolis Motor Speedway due to the impending storm, Larson's quest to achieve "The Double" remained uncertain. The race officials hoped for a window of opportunity to dry the track and complete at least 101 laps to make the race official.

Larson, aiming to emulate Tony Stewart's feat in 2001 of completing every lap in both races, acknowledged the challenges posed by the inclement weather. His commitment to keeping the Indy 500 as a priority was evident, even though he would require NASCAR's waiver to miss the Cup Series race in Charlotte.

Despite his initial wish for the rain to cancel the race, Larson adjusted his strategy with the hope of running the Indy 500 on Monday and participating in both races. However, the weather conditions seemed to favor a possible race on the same day, affecting his plans for the Coca-Cola 600.

Starting fifth in the Indy 500 with the No. 17 car for Arrow McLaren, Larson's joint venture with Hendrick Motorsports showcased the meticulous preparation undertaken for over a year. Rick Hendrick's presence at Indianapolis Motor Speedway highlighted the significance of Larson's participation in both events, despite the uncertainties surrounding the weather.

The intricate plan to navigate between the two races involved finishing the Indy 500, boarding a helicopter to a nearby airfield, flying to Charlotte, and finally reaching Charlotte Motor Speedway. The delayed start of the race presented Larson and his team with a challenging decision that could potentially impact his participation in the Indy 500.

Hendrick emphasized the difficulty of potentially withdrawing Larson early from the Indy 500, considering the team's investment in the race and Larson's competitive position. The unpredictable weather conditions added another layer of complexity to Larson's ambitious endeavor, underscoring the resilience and adaptability required to navigate the challenges of competing in two prestigious races on the same day.