“We have unfinished business”: Kyle Larson on his desire for second Indy-Charlotte Double after “disappointing” debut attempt 

Kyle Larson has announced his intention to pursue double duty again in 2025. During a press conference on Tuesday, the #5 Hendrick Motorsports driver expressed his determination to attempt the feat of competing in both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day next year, following his incomplete effort this year.

While the rest of the top 16 drivers each made 27 starts during the regular season, Kyle Larson participated in 26 [due to his double-duty attempt] but still maintained top form throughout most of the year. By the time the Indy 500 arrived, he had already secured victories at Las Vegas and Kansas. Following his unsuccessful double-duty attempt in May, he added wins at Sonoma Raceway and the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

After being eliminated from the first playoff race in Atlanta due to his car getting loose on Lap 56, Kyle Larson, ahead of the second race of the playoffs at Watkins Glen, confirmed:

"I really enjoyed the month of May in Indy and racing with Arrow McLaren, but I was really disappointed with missing the Coca-Cola 600 with the No. 5 HendrickCars.com team. I appreciate the second opportunity because we have unfinished business. I really want to complete all 1100 miles, and I think we have the opportunity to battle for the win in both events."

"I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t feel like I had the opportunity to win both races. I know that’s a very difficult task, but I know it can be done, especially with a team like Arrow McLaren and Hendrick Motorsports," he added.

The existing deal between Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports, and Arrow McLaren Racing spans two years, with 2025 designated as an optional year.

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Controversy surrounded Kyle Larson's double-duty attempt in May

While both NASCAR and Indy fans were eager to watch the #5 Hendrick Motorsports driver transition from a single-seater at Indianapolis Motor Speedway to a stock car at Charlotte Motor Speedway, inclement weather thwarted his plans, preventing him from arriving on time for the NASCAR race.

The situation sparked debate when NASCAR initially hesitated to provide Kyle Larson with a waiver, following his decision to participate in the Indy 500, which was delayed due to extreme weather conditions. Under the NASCAR rules, drivers must compete in all regular season races to qualify for the playoffs. Without a waiver, his chances of playoff eligibility were at risk.

However, the waiver had previously been given to the drivers having injuries, surgeries, some personal loss, and so on. However, it was different this time because it was Larson's choice to race the Indy 500 instead of prioritizing the Coca-Cola 600.

Amid discussions among NASCAR insiders about the fairness of issuing a waiver due to his choice, NASCAR eventually conceded the waiver. Nevertheless, Rick Hendrick might be reluctant to approve another Indy 500 appearance unless NASCAR provides a definitive assurance concerning future waivers.