Kyle Larson, who recently discussed potential crossover stars, believes Josef Newgarden is the IndyCar Series driver best suited for a strong showing at Phoenix Raceway in the NASCAR Cup Series. As excitement builds for the 2026 doubleheader at the Arizona oval, Larson highlighted Newgarden’s experience and Team Penske‘s dominance on that track, bringing the focus keyword, Kyle Larson NASCAR Cup Series, to the forefront of motorsports conversations.
Larson Chooses Newgarden for NASCAR Debut at Phoenix
During an interview before throwing out the first pitch at an Arizona Diamondbacks game, Larson revealed that he would choose Josef Newgarden to compete in the NASCAR Cup Series race at Phoenix Raceway. Phoenix is recognized as a stronghold for Team Penske, Roger Penske’s powerhouse operation, with three consecutive championships won at the venue. Larson’s reasoning centered on the consistent strength of Team Penske vehicles at tracks similar to Phoenix.
Josef Newgarden, who races for Roger Penske in the IndyCar Series, has already claimed two championships (2017 and 2019) and maintains solid connections to the broader Penske racing organization. He regularly interacts with Team Penske’s NASCAR drivers and was even present at Ryan Blaney’s wedding in Colorado.
Larson’s comments showed a genuine belief in Newgarden’s adaptability, stating:
“Judging by how untouchable Penske cars are on that style of track, it would be the perfect place for Josef Newgarden to make his debut in a Cup car. He would probably go out there and run top five easily, and I’m not even exaggerating in that thing.”
– Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
He continued with some speculation about team permission:
“I don’t think Roger would probably let him, but I wish that he would because he would showcase his talents… IndyCar’s talents so well in that weekend,” he added.
– Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Phoenix Prepares for 2026 Doubleheader
The March 2026 event at Phoenix will see the rare convergence of America’s top open-wheel and stock car racing series, marking a significant milestone for the sport. The track, which frequently acts as the season finale for both series, boasts a particular reputation for favoring the Team Penske outfit. The event will offer an unprecedented opportunity for crossover competition and fan engagement in Arizona.
Team Penske’s clout at Phoenix is one of the main reasons why Larson considers Newgarden an ideal pick for a Cup Series debut. The synergy between IndyCar and NASCAR drivers, fostered by events and personal connections like Blaney’s wedding, further amplifies the crossover potential that fans and competitors are eager to witness.
Kyle Larson’s Own Attempts at Bidirectional Racing
Kyle Larson’s advocacy for cross-series competition carries extra weight given his personal attempts at “The Double”—racing both the Indianapolis 500 and NASCAR’s Coca-Cola 600 on Memorial Day weekend. Larson’s most notable showing was earning a fifth-place qualifying position at the Indianapolis 500, though he has yet to secure a top-10 result in the legendary open-wheel race. His respect for the physical and logistical demands of attempting both marquee events on the same day is well known.
Larson Confirms He Will Not Attempt The Double in 2026
Amid speculation that he might try The Double again during the 2026 doubleheader, Larson clarified that he will not participate in both races that year. The California native cited logistical difficulties as the primary deterrent, though he is open to trying the Indianapolis 500 again under the right circumstances.
Addressing the public anticipation, Larson stated:
“I feel like I’ve made it known that I wouldn’t do The Double again. I get asked about it all the time, so no. I mean, it’s just like it’s just logistically too tough.”
– Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Regarding his future ambitions, he explained:
“I don’t have FOMO from running the Indy 500. But hopefully, someday I can run that again, but I don’t have any desire to do The Double again.”
– Kyle Larson, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Larson’s Crossover Successes and Challenges
Larson’s own record includes an 18th-place finish in his IndyCar debut, earning him the Indy 500 Rookie of the Year award. However, his sophomore effort ended prematurely after a crash on lap 91, resulting in a DNF. The same day delivered further disappointment, as he was unable to finish the NASCAR Coca-Cola 600, highlighting the risks and physical strain that come with tackling two demanding races in a single day.
Despite these challenges, Larson remains a prominent figure in both disciplines, admired for his versatility and willingness to attempt what many consider the ultimate racing challenge.
LARSON’S NASCAR Form and Eyes on the Championship
For the 2025 NASCAR season, Larson has delivered top-tier performances with three victories, 11 top-five finishes, and 18 top-10s already on his record. Entering the pivotal Charlotte Roval race, he holds a substantial 54-point advantage above the playoff cutline, positioning himself as a strong title contender. NASCAR’s competitive environment has been enriched by cross-series storylines, with Larson’s involvement adding further depth.
The Significance of Crossover Hopes and What Lies Ahead
The potential for drivers like Josef Newgarden to move into NASCAR Cup Series competition at Phoenix underscores the evolving relationship between American motorsports’ top series. With Kyle Larson’s endorsements and first-hand experience at The Double, both fans and insiders see increasing chances for collaboration, driver moves, and increased visibility for the sport as a whole.
Eyes now turn to the 2026 Phoenix doubleheader, where series champions such as Larson, Newgarden, and possibly others could redefine what is possible for cross-disciplinary competition. With continued support from teams like Penske and ongoing rivalry between teams and drivers, the intersection of the IndyCar Series and NASCAR Cup Series at Phoenix promises to be one of the most compelling motorsports storylines of the coming years.
NASCAR Champ Kyle Larson believes @Team_Penske's Josef Newgarden could run top-5 in a Cup Series car at @phoenixraceway in March 👀
Will we see a driver try the doubleheader? pic.twitter.com/QzMy93LnTh
— SpeedFreaks (@SpeedFreaks) September 30, 2025
