Larson, out of “The Double”: Crashes truncate Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 dream

Kyle Larson Suffers Double Setback in a Day to Forget

Kyle Larson’s day at Charlotte Motor Speedway went from bad to worse on Sunday night. A day that began with high expectations culminated in disappointments in both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600, leaving the talented racer questioning his future attempts at “The Double”.

Larson, who was seeking to become the second driver to complete both races, saw his hopes dashed in both competitions. First, an accident on lap 91 of the Indy 500, and then, a crash on lap 246 of the Coca-Cola 600, marked the end of his aspirations.

I hate how the day unfolded. I wish I could press the reset button. I feel terrible for everyone, especially Rick Hendrick.

Kyle Larson

The driver, who had already attempted “The Double” the previous year with problems due to weather conditions, faced the misfortune of accidents this time.

After being checked at the medical center of the Charlotte Motor Speedway, Larson expressed his doubts about whether he will try the challenge again next year, arguing that it is too early to decide. “The Double is a difficult task. The time window is too tight,” he commented.

The race in Charlotte started with good prospects for Larson, who started from the front row and led in the early laps. However, contact with the wall on lap 38 affected his car’s performance. Subsequently, a spin relegated him to the last positions, forcing him to multiple pit stops for adjustments.

The final incident involved Ryan Blaney, Chase Briscoe, and Daniel Suarez, who made contact in turn 4. Suarez, losing control, hit the right rear of Larson’s car, who was forced to take his number 5 Chevrolet to the garage, ending his participation in the race in 37th position.

The Indy 500 also presented obstacles for Larson. Despite starting well, a mistake on lap 91 took him out of the race. Larson explained that, while trying to overtake Takuma Sato, his car went out of control and hit the wall.

The triumph at the Indy 500 went to Álex Palou, who made history by becoming the first Spanish driver to win the race.

Last year, rain prevented Larson from participating in the Coca-Cola 600, and this year, accidents thwarted his plans in both races.

John Andretti was the first driver to attempt the Indy 500-Coca-Cola 600 double in 1994, followed by Robby Gordon, Tony Stewart, and Kurt Busch. Stewart is the only one who has completed the 1,100 miles, achieving a sixth-place finish in the 2001 Indy 500 and a third-place finish in the Cup race.