Kyle Larson Indy 500: NASCAR star making Indianapolis 500 debut

Kyle Larson, NASCAR points leader, debuts in Indy 500 with plans to run NASCAR's Coca-Cola 600 on the same day.

On Sunday, Kyle Larson, the current NASCAR Cup Series points leader, will be making his IndyCar Series debut in the iconic Indianapolis 500. This marks a significant moment in Larson's career as he plans to do the double, flying from Indianapolis to North Carolina to run NASCAR's Coca-Cola 600, the longest race on the Cup Series schedule.

Larson's journey to the Indy 500 started back in January 2023 when he announced his intention to compete in the race. With HendrickCars.com as the confirmed sponsor of an Arrow McLaren entry, Larson quickly got to work with Hendrick and McLaren to sort out the details. The 2021 Cup Series champion impressed during the rookie test last October and has shown speed throughout the month of May.

For the Indy 500, Larson will be driving an orange and blue McLaren entry with the blue HendrickCars.com scheme incorporated into his usual Cup Series paint scheme. Hendrick Motorsports' technical director, Brian Campe, will be the race strategist, and Larson will have his spotter, Tyler Monn, guiding him during the race. Larson will start the Indianapolis 500 in fifth place, in the middle of the second row, marking his first IndyCar Series start.

In addition to the Indy 500, Larson will also be competing in the Coca-Cola 600, where he qualified 10th. However, weather conditions may play a significant role in Larson's double attempt. The National Weather Service forecasts an 87% chance of rain at 11 a.m. CT on Sunday, potentially delaying the start of the Indy 500. A rain delay could jeopardize Larson's chances of completing the double, as the Coca-Cola 600 is scheduled to start at 5:22 p.m. CT.

Despite the uncertainties surrounding the weather, Larson, Arrow McLaren, and Hendrick Motorsports have not disclosed their plans if the Indy 500 is delayed. Larson would need a waiver from NASCAR to remain eligible for the Cup playoffs if he prioritizes one race over the other.

Throughout history, several NASCAR drivers have attempted the Indianapolis-Charlotte double on Memorial Day weekend, with varying degrees of success. Larson's attempt at the double draws comparisons to drivers like Tony Stewart and Kurt Busch, who have had notable performances in both races.

As Larson prepares for his debut in the IndyCar Series, all eyes will be on him as he aims to make history with a successful double attempt at the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600.