Kyle Larson crashes out of Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 in a historic and heartbreaking sequence on Sunday, as the NASCAR Cup Series driver became the first to be eliminated from both events in the same day, drawing both sympathy and praise across the racing world. Dale Earnhardt Jr., well-known son of a NASCAR legend, chose to spotlight Larson’s remarkable effort rather than join critics following this unprecedented disappointment.
Larson’s Double Attempt Ends in Rare Dual Crashes
Kyle Larson, driving for HendrickCars.com Chevrolet, aimed to accomplish the demanding Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 doubleheader, tackling a grueling 1,100-mile stretch across two of the most celebrated races in American motorsports. On Sunday, his effort, marked by intense preparation and high expectations, ended abruptly when he crashed out of the Indy 500 late in the contest, having run near the back for much of the event. Without the chance to rebound, Larson later faced a similar fate at the Coca-Cola 600, unfortunately registering a Did Not Finish in both high-profile races.
The event took place on Sunday, May 26, 2025, with Larson making history at the Daytona International Speedway in Florida, where the pressure and ambition of competing in both the Indy 500 and the NASCAR Cup Series Coca-Cola 600 proved overwhelming. Neither race saw him cross the finish line, marking a painful first in motorsports history for a driver with such esteemed credentials. Photographs by Meg Oliphant and James Gilbert captured Larson’s determination during Daytona 500 qualifying, offering a visual reminder of the ambition that drove his double attempt.
Larson Shares Candid Reflections After Setback
After facing disappointment on both tracks, Larson’s frustration was clear, and he voiced uncertainty about ever pursuing this feat again. He openly acknowledged the daunting task of managing the logistical demands and relentless schedule, hinting at how the tight overlap between events makes the “Double” a near-impossible challenge for even the most seasoned competitors.
“The Double is just a tough undertaking. The window of time is too tight. … So I don’t really think it’s worth it. But I would love to run the indy 500 again. Just doing the Double I think is just logistically too tough,”
—Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series driver
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Defends Larson Amid Wave of Critique
In the aftermath of the incident, while some voices within NASCAR and beyond suggested that drivers cannot truly focus on both events with equal attention—thereby increasing crash risks—Dale Earnhardt Jr. took a different stance. As speculation about Larson’s preparation and performance grew, Junior called attention to the sheer physical and mental demands already weighing on high-profile NASCAR drivers, especially when attempting such a unique challenge.
“Talked about this on the 600 post race,”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR commentator
“What we don’t see are the meet n greets, photo shoots, team meetings, travel, and more photo shoots, media requests… his plate is already full with those things in NASCAR and to add THE Indy 500!! It’s a Herculean undertaking in May times 10. Unreal.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR commentator
This public defense came via X, formerly known as Twitter, where Earnhardt Jr. used his sizable influence to recognize Larson’s determination and challenge, rather than focusing on the historic disappointment. His perspective offered a reminder to fans and analysts alike that the burden on drivers extends well beyond what viewers see on the track, with back-to-back commitments and nationwide travel pushing even the most exceptional athletes to their limits.
Enduring Impact and the Road Ahead for Larson
Kyle Larson’s unique and difficult day will likely stand as a vivid example of the sacrifices and risks taken by racing’s elite in pursuit of legendary status. While frustration and sadness defined Sunday’s outcome, the willingness to take on such a challenge remains a rare quality among NASCAR and IndyCar drivers. The support from respected figures like Dale Earnhardt Jr. may offer Larson both solace and validation for his effort, even as he considers future participation in these grueling doubleheader traditions.
As the motorsport season progresses and Kyle Larson weighs whether to attempt the double again, the events of May 26, 2025, at Daytona Beach and during the Indy 500 will be remembered not only for the crashes, but also for the resilience shown in the face of extraordinary adversity. With renewed attention on the overwhelming challenge of juggling the demands of major racing calendars, the conversation around Larson’s double-header feat may shape the careers and ambitions of future drivers who aspire to match or break new boundaries in the sport.
