Kyle Larson battled through a tense qualifying session on Saturday at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, ultimately earning the 21st starting position for the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500. The NASCAR Cup Series champion, who is striving to complete the extraordinary “Double Duty” by racing in both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on Memorial Day weekend, experienced moments of uncertainty as his initial qualifying run left him dangerously close to missing the cut. This dramatic day highlighted just how narrow the margins can be at one of auto racing’s most historic venues.
Despite not advancing to the Fast 12, Kyle Larson managed to secure a spot in Row 7 for the start of the iconic race on May 26. Following the session, Larson provided honest insight into his experience, noting how his car felt less comfortable than during his first Indy 500 appearance the previous year. “We’re in the race,” he stated.
Though his four-lap average was solid, Larson’s remarks underscored just how difficult qualifying can be, even for top drivers.
Elaborating further on his run, Kyle Larson described how the car became
He explained,
Competing for Arrow McLaren in partnership with Hendrick Motorsports, Larson is backed by an elite support team, further fueling hopes for a memorable run in the Indy 500.
Larson’s weekend, however, is far from over. Early Sunday morning, he is set to travel to North Carolina to participate in the NASCAR All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway. If successful, Kyle Larson could complete 1,100 miles of racing on Memorial Day Sunday—an astonishing feat that few drivers have ever attempted. Still, he acknowledges the toll that such an undertaking demands. The 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Champion admitted this could be his final effort at pulling off the double for some time, due to the huge logistical challenge and the intense physical exertion required.
Last year, Kyle Larson made his INDYCAR debut in the Indy 500, where a promising run was derailed by a pit-road speeding penalty, ending his day in 18th place. By the time he traveled to Charlotte for the Coca-Cola 600, the race was already underway, and Justin Allgaier had started in his Cup car. The double-duty challenge remains one of the most compelling stories heading into race week, with fans and fellow competitors watching as Larson prepares to take on the grueling schedule.
The 2025 Indianapolis 500 is set for Sunday, May 25, at 12:45 p.m. ET. Kyle Larson’s daring pursuit not only amplifies anticipation for the race, but also continues to inspire as he faces adversity with determination, making this year’s “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” even more thrilling to follow.
