Kyle Larson encountered his first challenge during his packed May schedule. Next month, Larson is set to join the exclusive group of drivers attempting “The Double,” racing 1,100 miles in a single day.
He’ll kick off with the prestigious Indianapolis 500 in an Indy car and then swiftly fly to Charlotte for NASCAR’s longest event, the Coca-Cola 600.
However, ahead of this monumental endeavor, Larson will remain in Indianapolis on May 17 to focus on practicing for the 500 instead of traveling to North Wilkesboro Speedway for NASCAR All-Star race preparations.
He plans to qualify for the Indy 500 on May 18 and, if all goes smoothly, rush to North Carolina for an All-Star heat race later that evening.
The All-Star race at North Wilkesboro is scheduled for May 21, just hours after the starting grid for the top 12 cars is determined in Indianapolis.
“I’m hoping to participate in a heat race,” Larson explained. “But whether I’ll make it back in time for the actual race remains uncertain. It all depends on how the week unfolds in Indy. I definitely won’t have the chance to practice, that’s for sure.”
Larson’s next stint on the track at Indy is slated for May 14, when preparations for the Indy 500 commence. He’s driving a joint entry by McLaren and Hendrick Motorsports, marking Rick Hendrick’s inaugural entry into the Indy 500.
“I need to maximize my track time in Indy,” Larson emphasized. “The plane will be ready whenever I’m free to depart.”
