Kyle Larson Locks Himself In and Qualifies 21st for the Indy 500
NASCAR star secures a spot in the field for his Indianapolis 500 debut
Indianapolis, IN – May 18, 2025 — Kyle Larson, the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion, has officially qualified for the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500. Making his highly anticipated debut at the historic event, Larson locked himself into the field with a 21st-place qualifying effort on Saturday at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
A Smooth but Conservative Run
Driving the No. 17 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, Larson put together a solid but measured four-lap average speed during Saturday’s opening round of qualifying. While not fast enough to crack the top 12 and contend for pole in Sunday’s Fast 12 shootout, his performance was more than enough to comfortably secure a spot in the 33-car field.
“We accomplished the goal today,” Larson said. “The biggest thing was just making sure we were locked in. It’s a totally different experience than anything I’ve ever done, but the car felt good and I feel like there’s still more to learn.”
Double Duty Continues
Larson’s Indy 500 attempt is part of a rare “Double Duty” effort—racing both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day, May 25. He is set to fly from Indianapolis to Charlotte, North Carolina, immediately after the Indy 500 to compete in NASCAR’s longest race of the year. Only a handful of drivers have attempted the grueling doubleheader, with Tony Stewart being the only one to complete all 1,100 miles in a single day (2001).
While the logistics and physical demand are enormous, Larson seems undeterred.
“Right now, I’m just focused on getting more comfortable in the IndyCar,” he said. “It’s a huge challenge, but I’ve got a great team and great people around me.”
Arrow McLaren Confident in Rookie’s Potential
Arrow McLaren, a top-tier team in IndyCar, has been impressed with Larson’s rapid adaptation to the new environment. His blend of natural talent and technical feedback has already made waves in the paddock.
“He’s a racer through and through,” said Gavin Ward, Racing Director for Arrow McLaren. “The way he’s approached this—methodically, respectfully, but with a clear hunger to compete—is exactly what we hoped for.”
Focus Shifts to Race Prep
With qualifying behind him, Larson’s focus now turns to race preparations, particularly in traffic conditions, pit strategy, and restarts—elements that define success in the Indy 500.
“There’s still so much I need to absorb,” Larson admitted. “But this is a dream opportunity, and I want to make the most of it.”
The 108th running of the Indianapolis 500 will take place on Sunday, May 25. With Larson officially in the show, all eyes will be on how far the NASCAR ace can go in his first attempt at conquering the Brickyard.
