What do John Andretti, Tony Stewart, Kurt Busch, and Kyle Larson—four NASCAR stars from different generations—have in common? It’s not just race wins or championships. It’s the unmistakable pull of the Indianapolis 500. Andretti became the first driver to attempt “The Double” feat in 1994. Stewart blazed in 2001, finishing inside the top six in both races, and to this day, he remains the only driver to complete both races. Kurt Busch followed, taking on in 2014, and Larson was the latest entrant to the list in 2024.

Now, Larson, arguably the most naturally gifted driver of his era, is chasing that same crossover magic again in 2025. But his path hasn’t been smooth. What started as a high-profile IndyCar detour in 2024 has now become a story of what could’ve been. As year two rolls on, questions linger: Will Larson return to Indy again? Or will this year be his last shot at crossing the Brickyard finish line in an open-wheel car? Well, his answer certainly did not impress Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Dale Jr. is conflicted about rooting for Kyle Larson in 2025

Kyle Larson’s 2024 double attempt was marred by weather disruptions. A significant rain delay at the Indianapolis 500 postponed the start by four hours, pushing the race into the late afternoon. Larson managed to complete the Indy 500, finishing 18th and earning Rookie of the Year honors. However, the delay meant that he arrived at Charlotte Motor Speedway just as another rainstorm led to the early termination of the Coca-Cola 600, preventing him from turning a single lap. 

In a candid conversation on the Dale Jr. Download podcast, Kyle Larson reflected on his challenging 2024 attempt at the Indianapolis 500 and Coca-Cola 600 double. However, when Dale Jr. asked him, “How many of these do you wanna do?” his response was disheartening for the 50-year-old. Larson admitted, “If last year had gone smooth, you know maybe, I wouldn’t be doing this year. But last year didn’t go exactly how we all planned. So, I really wanted to do this year.”

Dale Jr. instantly replied, “See, that’s bulls—. If I’m a fan, I’m gonna be torn to pull for you to have a good result. Because I want you to go back and do it again, but if you have a good result, you might not.” Dale Jr.’s comments reveal the historic nature of Larson’s attempt and why fans want to see him do it again and again. Only five drivers have ever attempted the double, with 3-time NASCAR Cup race winner Robby Gordon being the fifth addition to the aforementioned names. However, Gordon attempted it more than anybody else (5 times), and Jr. wants to see more of the same from Larson. However, NASCAR commitments stand in the way of the 2021 Cup Series Champion.

“I would like to do it again someday where I’m like fully committed mentally. I can’t fully commit to Indy in the middle of our NASCAR Cup Series schedule and points chasing and all the other stuff that I have going on,” Larson told Dale Jr., admitting how the overlapping schedules and mental tug-of-war left him split between two worlds. NASCAR also added a new rule to their playoff waiver, which takes away all playoff points accrued during the regular season if a driver misses a race for outside commitments. This only makes Larson’s task more daunting, as he was considered lucky to receive the waiver in 2024. Aside from NASCAR, Larson also takes part in the High Limit Racing Series, a competition that he co-owns with his brother-in-law Brad Sweet.

As per Kyle Larson, there’s no deal with McLaren and Hendrick Motorsports for a third attempt (at least not yet). “I don’t think there’s plans for next year currently,” Larson said. He confirmed that the Hendrick-McLaren alliance was a two-year agreement. That ups the ante for this year. As Larson said bluntly, “Yeah, so make it good this time.” There are no do-overs left—just the shot in front of him. Kyle Larson will attempt the historic feat on May 25, 2025.

With the 2025 Indy 500 set for clearer skies (fingers crossed!) and the Coca-Cola 600 following immediately after, Larson’s quest to finish what he started is one of the biggest storylines of the season. Whether he pulls off the Double or not, he’s already proven one thing – He’s not just doing this for show. He’s doing it to silence that “what if?”

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Kyle Larson’s #Hendrick1100 journey becomes a ‘Prime’ time documentary

Kyle Larson’s quest to conquer racing’s most grueling day just got even more cinematic. In 2025, he’ll once again attempt the legendary “The Double.” This 1,100-mile test of stamina and skill, dubbed the #Hendrick1100, now has a new co-pilot: Prime Video.

Amazon’s streaming giant is stepping in as the presenting sponsor for Larson’s May 25 mission. But they’re not just slapping logos on his cars. They’ve also greenlit a full-length documentary that follows Larson’s two-year journey toward racing immortality. The film promises an all-access pass into Larson’s training, mindset, and the raw pressure of the Double.

“Kyle’s double attempt is one of the most exciting storylines in all of sports, and we’re thrilled to be part of it,” said Stacey Rosenson, head of U.S. sports marketing, Prime Video. The project is already in motion. Filming started in October 2023 and was originally just to capture his 2024 attempt. However, after the disappointing conclusion in 2024 led to HMS going at it again, Prime Video decided they would cover both attempts! Emmy and Peabody Award-winning filmmaker Cynthia Hill is directing the feature. The production comes from Hill’s Markay Media, Imagine Documentaries, and Hendrick Motorsports, with support from NASCAR Studios and Penske Entertainment.

Both of Larson’s race cars, the No. 17 IndyCar for Arrow McLaren and the No. 5 stock car for Hendrick Motorsports, will carry Prime Video branding. It’s a massive moment for Prime, who will also broadcast their first NASCAR Cup Series race, the Coca-Cola 600, on the same day Larson takes the green flag at Indy.

Rick Hendrick calls the collaboration a powerful way to promote their platform. “The film is going to show Kyle like people have never seen him – his preparation, his mindset, and what it takes to pursue such a daunting challenge,” he said. For fans, it’s a rare look behind the scenes of one of the most ambitious efforts in racing history. Expect intensity. Expect emotion. And above all, expect to see Kyle Larson like never before. He will be under the helmet and behind the headlines.

Do you think Larson can become the second driver to complete both events? Let us know in the comments!