Kevin Harvick discusses Kyle Larson‘s Double attempt impact after the NASCAR and IndyCar star took on both the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600. Sharing insights on his podcast, Harvick pointed out that the mental and physical strain may have influenced Larson’s confidence at the Charlotte race, especially following a demanding run at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
On his latest Happy Hour podcast episode, the former Cup Series champion reflected on Larson’s tumultuous run with the #17 Arrow McLaren entry in the IndyCar Series. After facing three accidents during the Indy races, Harvick believes the abrupt and disappointing end in the Indy 500 motivated Larson to reassert himself when he returned to the #5 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports.
“I think he [Kyle Larson] came back to the 600 wanting to just absolutely smash them,” Kevin Harvick said on the podcast. “He stepped over the limit a couple times and got himself in trouble, just wanting to rebound and show everybody from the Indy 500 scenario that he was the man. He’s still the man. But even the guys like Kyle Larson can be affected by that confidence piece that goes with the driving, and how you think the process that you go through.” —Kevin Harvick, Former Cup Series Champion
Larson’s effort in the Indy 500 ended after just 91 laps due to a crash at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, cutting short his debut in open-wheel racing’s top event. His fortunes did not improve later that day at Charlotte; despite leading the field in the Coca-Cola 600, Larson was caught in a late-race incident, compounding the difficulties of the doubleheader showdown.
Reflections on Prioritizing NASCAR Over Future Double Attempts
With the events of Memorial Day behind him, Harvick offered a candid perspective on whether Larson should take on the grueling task again, hinting that the added commitments may detract from his main series performance.
I think that at this point, he just needs to focus on the NASCAR side of it. And so it’s great that he can do it [IndyCar], but I think it took away from the NASCAR side of it this week with the circumstances… And so I’m happy that he did it. I think it was great for racing. I hope it’s the last time.” —Kevin Harvick, Former Cup Series Champion
Harvick’s perspective stems from years of racing experience, suggesting that the intense physical and mental demands of the Double could cannibalize energy needed for NASCAR, particularly given the challenges faced this year. The focus, he believes, should remain on excelling with Hendrick Motorsports, where Larson’s ambitions are still very much within reach in the Cup Series.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Commends Larson’s Determination
Dale Earnhardt Jr. also entered the conversation, drawing attention to the enormous behind-the-scenes workload that goes into attempting both the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600. Earnhardt, a respected NASCAR Hall of Famer, went public on social media with his admiration for Larson’s stamina and commitment to both disciplines.
“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 Hall of Famer
Earnhardt’s remarks highlight the immense organizational and emotional hurdles facing drivers aiming for both marquee events in a single day. The feat, rarely attempted in modern racing, puts even the most skilled competitors like Larson under extraordinary pressure, both on and off the track.
Larson’s Current Standing and Future Prospects
Despite the setbacks during the Double, Kyle Larson remains formidable in the NASCAR Cup Series. So far this season, he has secured three victories and sits just 29 points behind Hendrick Motorsports teammate William Byron. The #5 Chevrolet driver continues to demonstrate resilience and competitiveness as he navigates a demanding race calendar.
Looking ahead, the Cup Series resumes at Nashville Superspeedway, set for June 1 at 7:00 pm ET. Larson, Harvick, Earnhardt Jr., and the broader NASCAR faithful will watch closely to see how the high-stakes experience of the Double shapes Larson’s approach in the remainder of the season. His persistence and passion remain evident, underscoring the enduring appeal—and challenge—of racing’s most ambitious endeavors.
