Jimmie Johnson, the renowned seven-time NASCAR Cup champion, has publicly voiced his encouragement for Kyle Larson to try “The Double” again—competing in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day—even as Dale Earnhardt Jr. has advised otherwise. Johnson’s support for Larson stands in contrast to warnings from other high-profile voices in motorsports, underlining the complexity and high stakes facing Larson as he weighs whether to attempt this rare racing feat once more.
Jimmie Johnson’s Endorsement for Another Double Attempt
Jimmie Johnson’s mindset centers on believing in oneself until goals are achieved, and he applies this philosophy directly to Kyle Larson’s pursuit of The Double. Johnson has been clear in his belief that Larson should persist in his effort.
“I love that he’s doing it, and I hope that he sticks with it,”
—Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR Cup Champion.
He explained on NASCAR Inside The Race that the worldwide excitement and measurable boost for motorsports that comes from attempting The Double is significant. According to Johnson, Larson possesses the versatility and talent to handle the challenge of racing both Indy and NASCAR events at such a high level. Reflecting on Larson’s performance from the previous year, Johnson acknowledged that not every shot at these major races leads to success, but he was impressed by how Larson managed the challenges and the pressure that come with the back-to-back events.
Larson’s Uncertain Future with The Double
Kyle Larson has expressed doubts about attempting The Double again, possibly discouraged by physical and logistical demands. However, Johnson hopes Larson does not abandon the challenge due to setbacks or second-guessing. In his view, listening to one’s instincts and support system is more important than reacting to critics. Johnson stated that some of the loudest opinions come from those who may not understand the full scope or appreciate the sportsmanship involved in attempting such a feat.
“The loudest people in this argument are either not fans of his or really don’t appreciate the level of sportsmanship or sportsman that’s in this, to try to pull this off,”
—Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR Cup Champion.
“The cars are so freaking different and his time schedule and pressure managing it all, he’s a special talent.”
—Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR Cup Champion.
Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Warnings Against a Third Attempt
While Johnson’s backing is clear, Dale Earnhardt Jr. has offered strong caution about another attempt. Earnhardt Jr. believes the effort takes a significant toll, given the overlapping schedules and ongoing Cup obligations Larson faces while also preparing for Indy.
“This whole month is a f—ing pain in the a— between both Indy and NASCAR,”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Legend.
Earnhardt Jr. further questioned whether managing both major racing series at the same time is even worthwhile for Larson, considering his primary commitments.
“He’s still got his real job to do and he has to answer to the questions. Which is more important? What matters most? What happens if this? What happens if that? It’s like, man, it’s just not worth it.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Legend.
Uncertain Prospects and Ongoing Debate
With authority figures like Jimmie Johnson and Dale Earnhardt Jr. offering such differing perspectives, Kyle Larson finds himself at the center of a deeply complex decision. Whether he chooses to take on The Double again or not, support and skepticism from major figures in NASCAR ensure this debate remains very much alive, with implications for his career and the broader landscape of motorsports.
