Kyle Larson is taking on a new challenge by attempting the Indy-Charlotte Double in 2025, with plans to compete in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on Sunday. However, opinions are divided as NASCAR legend Kevin Harvick has expressed doubts about Larson’s chances of winning both races, citing a difficult qualifying and recent setbacks.
Larson Returns to the Indy-Charlotte Double After Last Year’s Disappointment
This year marks the second time Kyle Larson is aiming to complete the grueling Indy-Charlotte Double, an effort that combines the 109th Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and NASCAR’s demanding Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Last year, Larson’s bid was derailed by a rain delay that forced him to miss the entire Charlotte event. His determination remains strong in 2025, provided weather does not become a factor again.
Once the Indy 500 wraps up, Larson plans to immediately board a flight to Charlotte. If successful, this will mark the completion of 1,000 miles of competitive racing in a single day—an achievement reserved for only the boldest drivers. His performance last year saw him finish 18th at Indianapolis, but missing out on the Coca-Cola 600 has kept the Double an elusive milestone.
Kevin Harvick Shares His Honest Outlook on Larson’s Chances
During a recent episode of the “Happy Hour” podcast, Kevin Harvick gave his candid assessment, referencing the challenges Larson faced during qualifying and throughout the current racing season. Harvick set realistic expectations and did not shy away from stating his skepticism about Larson’s chances.
“I think the goal is to run the 1,000 miles. I don’t think he has a chance to win at Indy,”
Harvick said, via On3.
“Think with the way they qualified and all the things that have happened this year, I think that hope is out of the picture. Personally, I don’t see it. I think he can come back and be a real contender at the Coke 600 and just being able to finish on the lead lap at Indy and run all 1,000 miles and check that box, is probably the most realistic goal for this year. But still, an amazing feat.”
—Kevin Harvick, NASCAR Legend
Larson himself acknowledged the intensity of qualifying, stating,
“After the first run, I was a little bit nervous I’d be one of the guys battling for the final spots,”
Larson said after qualifying.
“It was slightly less comfortable than what I felt last year what I felt in qualifying. I felt pretty balanced. I was happy with that.”
—Kyle Larson, NASCAR Driver
Questions About Larson’s Future Double Attempts
Harvick also noted that Larson’s current experience seems less enjoyable compared to last year, contributing to uncertainty over whether he’ll give the Indy-Charlotte Double another shot after 2025.
“It doesn’t look like he’s having nearly as much fun this year as he did last year with the couple crashes and everything that’s happening,”
Harvick explained.
“It will be interesting to see if he moves forward with it after this year after it not being as much fun.”
—Kevin Harvick, NASCAR Legend
Despite last year’s setbacks and the apparent emotional toll, Larson retains the support of his fans, who remain eager to see if he can run all 1,000 miles and finish both races, even if winning both remains a tall order.
The Significance of Larson’s 2025 Attempt
On Sunday, Larson is set to start 21st at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, facing a field packed with competitors. By taking on the Indy-Charlotte Double for the second time, Larson is cementing his place in racing history as a determined and versatile driver. His performance is being closely monitored by both fans and legends of the sport such as Kevin Harvick, who see the attempt as remarkable even if outright victory seems unlikely.
As the big weekend approaches, the racing world will be focused on whether Kyle Larson can achieve the rare feat of finishing both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 in a single day. Whatever the outcome, his drive and ambition keep the spotlight shining on both NASCAR and the broader motorsport world.
