The most popular driver and entry from May’s Indianapolis 500 will return in 2025 and take another shot at winning ‘The Greatest Spectacle In Racing’ with an entry for Kyle Larson from Arrow McLaren/Hendrick Motorsports as part of their second attempt to do ‘The Double.’
The NASCAR Cup champion starred all month in his rookie appearance at the 500 in the No. 17 Chevy and was only limited by errors due to his inexperience in an IndyCar, and a downpour that delayed the race and derailed his plans to contest the 600-mile NASCAR race immediately after the 500 in Charlotte.
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Having shown exceptional promise on his Indy 500 debut after qualifying fifth and finishing 18th, and with unfinished business in completing the combined 1100 miles of racing, Larson, McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown, and Rick Hendrick decided it was worth ramping up the No. 17 Chevy program to try and make history with wins in both races.
“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,” Larson said. “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.”
Brown was ready to do it again with Hendrick and Larson after the checkered flag waved at Indy.
“Kyle showed us all what he was capable of this past May, and given a second chance with better weather conditions, I think we’ll all be excited to see him fight for a win at the Indy 500 and then another one in Charlotte,” he said.
“He’s one of the most talented racing drivers out there, and it’s a privilege to do this again with Mr. Hendrick and Jeff Gordon, who are both world-class. We can’t wait for May.”