Kyle Larson’s attempt to conquer the demanding Indy 500-Coke 600 double in 2024 ended in bitter disappointment, as he became embroiled in a crash on the 93rd lap of the Indianapolis 500. The Kyle Larson Indy 500 crash analyzed by Denny Hamlin has drawn attention due to the unusual circumstances surrounding the incident, with Larson’s challenges continuing as he failed to finish at Charlotte later that same day.
Representing Hendrick Motorsports, Larson had set his sights on making history, aiming to complete one of motorsport’s most grueling challenges. However, during a restart, his day at Indy was cut short, with another unfortunate outcome awaiting him at the Coca-Cola 600. The veteran NASCAR driver and friend, Denny Hamlin, reflected on Larson’s crash and its significance for both drivers and fans.
Denny Hamlin Reviews the Incident and Offers Insights
On the latest episode of his Actions Detrimental podcast, Denny Hamlin admitted that he missed witnessing the accident live due to his own racing commitments. Turned to television replays, Hamlin found the crash perplexing, noting its odd timing and circumstances. Larson’s crash happened just after a restart, when most vehicles had not yet fully accelerated to race speed.
Unfortunately, it didn’t, you know, fortunately or unfortunately, missed the Kyle Larson wreck. Just such an odd wreck, because it wasn’t — it appeared they weren’t up to speed yet.
Denny Hamlin said via Actions Detrimental podcast.
Hamlin observed that, at the time of the incident, the cars were only traveling at about 160 mph—a pace typically well within Larson’s comfort zone as a seasoned driver. The Joe Gibbs Racing veteran suggested that a sudden aerodynamic disturbance might have unsettled the Arrow McLaren entry, leading to the car’s abrupt loss of control.
Like, if you look at how fast he was going when he crashed, it was, I don’t know, I estimate like, 160? They were not up to speed yet, but I guess he just hit a weird pocket of air there or something, and that thing just swapped ends.
Denny Hamlin added.
Hamlin’s technical analysis points to the unpredictable dangers that drivers face at high speeds, even when conditions appear routine. Larson himself, reflecting after the race, admitted to being slightly overzealous at the crucial moment. He noted that getting too close to Takuma Sato might have played a role, causing him to lose control in the split second before disaster struck.
A Frustrating End and Swift Transition to Charlotte
After the crash at Indianapolis, Kyle Larson wasted no time in heading to Charlotte, seeking redemption in NASCAR’s Coca-Cola 600. Yet fate was not on his side, as two unrelated incidents forced yet another early exit, adding to the emotional weight of an already difficult day. The events underscored the immense challenge of attempting the double and highlighted the fine margins between triumph and heartbreak in motorsport.
Hamlin’s reaction carried the perspective of a close friend and respected rival. While he was unable to watch the entirety of the Indianapolis 500, Hamlin kept tabs on the race as best he could, juggling a packed schedule with appearance commitments and media obligations that left little room to tune in during key moments.
I got to watch a little bit of [the Indianapolis 500]. You know, with my schedule and all the appearances and whatnot that I had, meet and greets, I didn’t get to watch a lot of it. I got to watch the first 60 or 70 [laps], and then I didn’t get to see but the last 30. So, I missed the action in between.
Denny Hamlin said.
Hamlin described witnessing only the early and final segments of the race, missing the pivotal sequences in the middle, including Larson’s crash. He also acknowledged Alex Palou’s commanding performance, noting the reigning champion’s skill on display during the closing laps he managed to catch.
The Broader Impact on NASCAR and Motorsport Fans
Larson’s failed bid for the double deeply resonated with both the NASCAR garage and racing community as a whole. Many, including Team Penske drivers and other peers, were eager to witness a stock car driver achieve victory at the Indy 500. However, unpredictability and racing’s unforgiving nature prevailed, extending fans’ wait for such a milestone moment.
The disappointment of 2024 adds to the ongoing conversation about the viability and wisdom of pursuing dual-race feats. Veteran voices like Kevin Harvick have openly advised Larson to concentrate on his NASCAR aspirations following such setbacks, suggesting that focus and caution may be the wiser path moving forward. The future remains uncertain; some speculate that Larson may yet attempt the double again before the end of his career, determined to achieve what so many have found just out of reach.
Denny Hamlin’s breakdown of the incident reflects not only his understanding as a rival and technical expert, but also the somber mood surrounding Larson’s latest setback. While setbacks and misfortune are woven into the fabric of motorsport, the hope persists that determination and talent will eventually yield triumph, for both Larson and the aspiring crossover champions who follow in his tire tracks.
