![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2024-05-14T182650Z_1035755970_MT1USATODAY23271243_RTRMADP_3_INDYCAR-108TH-RUNNING-OF-INDIANAPOLIS-500-PRACTICE.jpg?width=600)
USA Today via Reuters
May 14, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Arrow McLaren/Rick Hendrick driver Kyle Larson (17) watches the rain fall Tuesday, May 14, 2024, during the first day of practice ahead of the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Grace Hollars-USA TODAY Sports
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2024-05-14T182650Z_1035755970_MT1USATODAY23271243_RTRMADP_3_INDYCAR-108TH-RUNNING-OF-INDIANAPOLIS-500-PRACTICE.jpg?width=600)
USA Today via Reuters
May 14, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Arrow McLaren/Rick Hendrick driver Kyle Larson (17) watches the rain fall Tuesday, May 14, 2024, during the first day of practice ahead of the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Grace Hollars-USA TODAY Sports
In his quest to conquer motorsport’s ultimate challenge known as the ‘The Double’, Kyle Larson had nothing but difficulties on Sunday. Battling against all odds, Larson was set to compete in both the prestigious Indianapolis 500 and NASCAR’s crown jewel Coca-Cola 600 on the same day but was met with weather setbacks.
Despite his unwavering determination, Larson’s aspirations were prevented as the rain-soaked track at Charlotte Motorspeedway prevented him from even participating in the second leg of his double mission. Instead of praises for his efforts, Larson was met with criticism for his failed attempt. But a NASCAR veteran and analyst came forward to defend Kyle Larson.
Kenny Wallace’s call for understanding in Kyle Larson’s Double Duty Saga
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Poll of the day
Kyle Larson & HMS Are Planning to Return to Indy 500 Next Year. But Should They?
Yes! It Is Great for NASCAR
No, It Was a Disaster This Time
Kenny Wallace came forward to defend Kyle Larson on his attempt at the double duty. Wallace highlighted Larson’s decision to compete in the iconic Indianapolis 500 Coca-Cola 600 is to be looked at for his dedication to the sport and his team.
Wallace argued that Larson’s participation in both races with the approval of his team owner, Rick Hendrick, has helped to elevate NASCAR’s profile. He further emphasized the unforeseeable nature of the weather disruption was a “godly act”. “Indianapolis 500 is the biggest race of all, and he decided to pull it off with his car owner Rick Hendrick, his blessing. Rick Hendrick pays him. Rick Hendrick was a part of all this. It helped promote racing beyond belief,” the veteran reasoned.
He also drew parallels to iconic drivers like Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart, suggesting that Larson has the same calibre of talent and charisma as these racing legends, “He’s the best thing that’s happened in racing a long time. People flock to these facilities. He’s a gift from God. Yes, I said it. He is better. A lot of you try to go, ‘Well, he ain’t no better than me’. Hell, he ain’t. He’s better than all of you. This is a once in a lifetime type driver. This is another Jeff Gordon. This is another Tony Stewart. Those are the drivers.”
Furthermore, the veteran also confronted any doubts or criticism that is being thrown at Larson, reaffirming his unwavering belief in the HMS driver’s extraordinary abilities and his potential to leave a mark in the sport. That being said, Larson himself couldn’t fathom how a day that was going to change his career for the better, turned into an absolute nightmare.
Kyle Larson’s day of disappointment as rain ruined his Double Duty
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Trending
Kyle Busch’s Wife Samantha Surprisingly Embracing Indian Culture Has Fans Going Gaga Over Fashionista Status
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1240218799.jpg?width=300)
NASCAR Rumor: Courtesy of a $38.76B Sponsor, Tony Stewart’s Dark Horse Secures a Seat With Brad Keselowski at RFK Racing
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-627072846-1.jpg?width=300)
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Enraged at Bubba Wallace After He Shot Himself in the Foot, Leaving Michael Jordan in Agony
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-91-21.jpg?width=300)
NASCAR Fans Urge Kyle Busch for a U-Turn Amid Rumors of Rick Hendrick’s Underachiever’s Exit
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Rick-Hendrick-and-Kyle-Busch-1.jpg?width=300)
Despite Alex Bowman’s Confidence, $12.67 Billion Sponsor Could Leave Him Hanging Out of HMS if the Tides Don’t Turn
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2022-03-12T201334Z_1117556456_MT1USATODAY17881011_RTRMADP_3_NASCAR-RUOFF-MORTGAGE-500-PRACTICE-QUALIFYING.jpg?width=300)
In the aftermath of his string of disappointments, Larson’s frustration was at a high as he shared his thoughts in the post-race interview. The gut-wrenching feeling of missed opportunities was beyond his control. Talking to Fox’s Bob Pockrass, he said, “I’m very, very thankful for the experience obviously — everything about the two weeks and all that was great until today. It’s just sad. Everything that could have gone wrong today, went wrong. Hopefully, I get to do it again in the future and hopefully, the weather is better,”
Despite his best efforts, Larson’s hopes to write his name in the history books were dashed by bad weather. After weeks and months of preparation, Larson was left with a bitter taste of disappointment. On Monday, the driver wrote a heartfelt note on X, stating that it was not the most disappointing day of his life and that he feels sorry for Rick Hendrick, Jeff Gordon and the whole team.
What I thought could be one of the best days of my life quickly turned into one of the most disappointing ones I’ve ever experienced. I hate it for Rick Hendrick, Jeff Gordon, HAG, Hendrick Motorsports, everyone a part of the 5 team, everyone on the 17 indycar for speeding, my…
— Kyle Larson (@KyleLarsonRacin) May 27, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
One thing to remember is that the partnership between Hendrick Motorsport and Arrow Mclaren to put Larson behind the wheel for the Indy 500 is a set two-year deal, which means he gets to try again next year as his redemption. Do you think he will?