Kyle Larson Tests an IndyCar at Phoenix

This Tuesday in Phoenix, Kyle Larson will take a step in his preparation by testing an IndyCar with the Arrow McLaren team. This event marks the first time in 2024 that Larson gets behind the wheel of an IndyCar, being a fundamental step towards his anticipated debut in the Indianapolis 500.

Larson, 2021 NASCAR Cup champion, resumes his training after finishing fifth in the NASCAR preseason exhibition at the Los Angeles Coliseum. The test on the one-mile Phoenix oval is more than a simple evaluation for the team; it represents a crucial stage in his preparation for the big challenge in May. Every team member working with Larson in Phoenix is an integral part of the program for the Indy 500, highlighting the importance of this collaboration.

In a gesture of support and guidance, Tony Kanaan, 2013 Indy 500 winner and current Sports Director of Arrow McLaren, will be present to advise and give feedback to Larson. This support is crucial, especially considering that any possible rain disruption will not delay Larson's test schedule, which includes only the Indy 500 Open Test on April 10 and 11.
Larson, 31, has already had a previous experience in an IndyCar in October during the Rookie Orientation Program at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he completed the three phases in 72 laps, reaching a top speed of 217.898 mph. Although familiar with high competition in NASCAR, Larson admits that preparation for IndyCar requires a different focus, including more study and data analysis.

His ambition doesn't stop there. Larson aims to be the first driver since Kurt Busch in 2014 to complete the 'Memorial Day Weekend Double', competing in both the Indy 500 and the 600-mile Cup race at Charlotte Motor Speedway on the same day. A challenge that has been attempted by legendary drivers such as John Andretti, Tony Stewart, and Robby Gordon, with Stewart achieving the best result in 2001, finishing sixth in Indianapolis and third in Charlotte.