Hendrick Motorsports founder Rick Hendrick recently shared his insights on Kyle Larson’s ambitious endeavor: racing both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day. This historic feat, known as “The Double,” has captured the attention of motorsports enthusiasts worldwide.
Rick Hendrick said it would be "extremely hard" to pull Kyle Larson out of the Indy 500 if there is weather in order to get him to the Coke 600 on time. He explains who will make the decision and then talks about the difficulty if they have to make a decision. pic.twitter.com/DXgdhKI0Qw
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) May 21, 2024
Kyle Larson, a NASCAR Cup Series regular, is set to make his IndyCar Series debut at the 108th Indianapolis 500. Simultaneously, in Charlotte, NASCAR will host the Coca-Cola 600. Larson’s goal is to become the fifth driver to complete ‘The Double’—racing a total of 1,100 miles across both events.
TRalking with Bob Pockrass Mr Hendrick expressed his surprise at having an entry in the Indy 500. The collaboration with McLaren Racing has exceeded his expectations. Rick Hendrick said it would be “extremely hard” to pull Kyle Larson out of the Indy 500 if there is weather in order to get him to the Coke 600 on time. He explains who will make the decision and then talks about the difficulty if they have to make a decision.
Kyle Larson’s Quest: Racing the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 on the Same Day
In 1994, John Andretti became the first driver to attempt both races on the same day. Andretti started the Indy 500 in the third row, finishing 10th, and then flew to Charlotte for the Coca-Cola 600, where he eventually dropped out due to engine failure.
Tony Stewart raced ‘The Double’ twice—in 1999 and 2001. In 2001, Stewart finished sixth at Indianapolis and third at Charlotte, completing both races in a combined 7 hours, 43 minutes, and 42 seconds.
Kurt Busch took on ‘The Double’ in 2014. He finished sixth at Indianapolis and matched Robby Gordon and Tony Stewart’s best showing in Charlotte.
Larson’s dream of racing in the Indy 500 has materialized through a collaboration with Arrow McLaren. With the support of his NASCAR boss, Rick Hendrick, Larson will tackle the iconic oval at Indianapolis.
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