The Indianapolis 500, also known as the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” is an iconic event that draws racing enthusiasts from around the world. In 2024, the 108th running of this prestigious race promises to be thrilling, with a competitive field of drivers vying for victory. One name that has caught the attention of fans and pundits alike is Tony Stewart.
I’ve done the Double. My crew at @AdvanceAuto wants to see one of you do the same. Join Advance’s Speed Perks rewards program and enter at https://t.co/kuYsZs26ay for your chance to win the experience of a lifetime: a trip to attend the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 in the same day.… pic.twitter.com/ASftGZZEcO
— Tony Stewart (@TonyStewart) May 1, 2024
Tony Stewart shared a video announcing his official X handle. He said, “If you know me, you know how passionate I am about the Indy 500… The double has been reserved for only us racecar drivers crazy enough to run 1100 miles in a single day until now. Our friends at Advance Auto Parts are excited to give you, the race fans, a chance to do the double.”
As the race approaches, the entry list is expected to grow significantly. Currently, 31 drivers are confirmed, but that number is likely to increase before qualifying. Bumping—where drivers compete for the limited grid spots—adds an extra layer of drama to the event.
Tony Stewart: The Double Duty Driver
In 1999, Tony Stewart made his first attempt at “The Double.” He aimed to race in the Indianapolis 500 during the day and then fly to Charlotte, North Carolina, for the Coca-Cola 600 at night. Unfortunately, mechanical issues forced him to retire early from the Indy 500, preventing him from completing the full distance.Two years later, in 2001, Stewart successfully conquered “The Double.”
Only a handful of drivers have attempted to compete in both races on the same day, but Tony Stewart stands out as the sole driver to complete all 1,100 miles in a single day.
2001: “The Double.”Triumph
- Indianapolis 500 (IndyCar): Stewart completed all 500 miles at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway earlier in the day. Remarkably, he was leading the race when rain briefly halted the action. Despite cramps in his leg during the red flag, Stewart persevered. Fortunately, the rain stopped, and he finished sixth before heading to Charlotte.
- Coca-Cola 600 (NASCAR): After the Indy 500, Stewart hopped on a plane and flew to Charlotte. He then raced in the Coca-Cola 600, driving another 600 miles at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. Stewart secured a third-place finish in this demanding night race.
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