Kyle Larson epitomizes the true spirit of racing. He’s a driver who’ll jump into any car and give it his all. This Memorial Day Weekend, he took a bold step by racing the Indianapolis 500 with Arrow McLaren while driving the No. 5 Chevy Camaro ZL1 for Hendrick Motorsport in the NASCAR Cup Series. Despite the risks, it was a decision rooted in passion and ambition.
The controversy arose because Larson never received NASCAR’s blessing to skip the Coca-Cola 600. His plan was to pull off “The Double,” racing both the Indy 500 and the Coke 600 on the same day. Weather delays, however, threw a wrench in his plans, preventing him from making it to Charlotte in time.
Without a waiver from NASCAR, Larson is currently ineligible for the playoffs, despite his two Cup Series wins this season. This rule could jeopardize his shot at another championship unless NASCAR decides to rewrite it. It’s baffling how this situation unfolded, involving Hendrick, Larson, and NASCAR itself.
If anyone deserves an exception to NASCAR’s rules, it’s Kyle Larson. He’s been the top driver on the most dominant team this season, and he already has a championship under his belt. Excluding him from the title chase could backfire for NASCAR, given Larson’s massive fanbase and the excitement his Indy crossover brought to the sport.
Larson’s decision to race the Indy 500 is understandable. The race is a motorsport jewel, enticing the world’s best drivers. Even though he finished P18, the thrill and prestige of competing in Indy are unparalleled. Imagine if he had won!
Larson’s resume speaks for itself. He’s not just a NASCAR champ; he won the Rolex 24 at Daytona in 2015, boasts two Chili Bowl victories, and countless dirt car wins. Other than an Indy 500 victory, he’s achieved almost everything in motorsport.
Larson isn’t indifferent to NASCAR’s decision. He wants another title and has stated his commitment to winning the 2024 Cup Series championship. He even wished for the Indy 500 to be rescheduled to allow him to race at Charlotte.
NASCAR has yet to decide on Larson’s waiver. Personally, I hope they grant it. But even if they don’t, Larson’s choice was the right one. When given a chance to race at the Indy 500, you take it—no questions asked.
