With the looming threat of bad weather impacting the 108th running of the Indy 500, Kyle Larson’s participation remains uncertain. As a NASCAR Cup Series driver, Larson prioritizes the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway later on Sunday.
Former Indy 500 champion Tony Kanaan was initially considered as Larson’s backup. However, Kanaan’s absence from pre-race track time means he’s no longer an option. This leaves 19-year-old Nolan Siegel as the potential replacement.
Siegel, despite failing to qualify, has ample track experience from practice sessions and the Rookie Orientation Program. With no conflicting commitments on race day, Siegel emerges as the primary backup choice.
While Siegel’s substitution isn’t confirmed, it’s now evident that if Larson can’t race, Siegel is the likely replacement.
NBC will provide live coverage of the Indy 500, starting at 11:00 a.m. ET, with the green flag expected to wave around 12:30 p.m. ET, weather permitting. Don’t miss any action—start a free trial of FuboTV!