Denny Hamlin Reveals What Could Make Or Break Kyle Larson’s Chances At The 2025 Indy 500 After Wild Qualifying
A Bold Debut Amid Intense Drama
Kyle Larson’s debut at the 2025 Indianapolis 500 is already making waves after a thrilling and unpredictable qualifying weekend. Larson, a NASCAR Cup Series champion, impressed motorsport fans by not only qualifying for the prestigious race but doing so in dramatic fashion — locking into the Fast 12 despite being relatively new to IndyCar competition.
But while the motorsport world marvels at Larson’s ability to quickly adapt to the demands of open-wheel racing, NASCAR star and team owner Denny Hamlin has issued a word of caution. According to Hamlin, Larson’s real test isn’t over — and his success or failure in the Indy 500 will likely hinge on one crucial factor.
Hamlin Points to Race-Day Execution as the Deciding Factor
Speaking on his popular podcast Actions Detrimental, Denny Hamlin praised Larson’s performance during qualifying but stressed that race-day strategy and discipline will ultimately determine whether Larson has a real shot at winning or falters in his Indy 500 debut.
“Qualifying is one thing,” Hamlin said. “But 500 miles at Indy is a completely different beast. If Kyle doesn’t manage the traffic, tire wear, and pit sequences just right, all that raw talent won’t be enough. It’s all about execution under pressure.”
Hamlin emphasized that IndyCar racing is unlike anything Larson regularly faces in NASCAR, particularly because of how the car behaves in traffic and how sensitive it is to aerodynamic disturbances — something Hamlin believes could be Larson’s biggest challenge.
Larson’s Aggressiveness: Asset or Liability?
One of the main factors that has propelled Larson to stardom in NASCAR is his aggressive driving style — a relentless approach that sees him constantly seeking opportunities to gain ground. However, Hamlin warned that what works in NASCAR may not translate seamlessly to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
“At Indy, patience can win you the race,” Hamlin explained. “Being too aggressive, especially in the first 400 miles, can get you in trouble real quick. Larson’s instincts are to go, go, go — but at Indy, sometimes you need to wait.”
This need for restraint could clash with Larson’s natural driving instincts, something Hamlin believes Larson will have to consciously manage.
Team and Communication: The Other X-Factor
In addition to driver mindset and strategy, Hamlin pointed to Larson’s partnership with Arrow McLaren and the critical role his team will play. “You need perfect pit stops. You need perfect communication. Every decision matters,” Hamlin said. “If there’s a slip-up in the pits or a miscalculation on fuel, it’s game over.”
Given the chaotic nature of the Indy 500 — with its high-speed crashes, unpredictable cautions, and intense restarts — Hamlin stressed that Larson’s crew must be as locked in as he is behind the wheel.
Conclusion: High Stakes, Higher Expectations
Kyle Larson’s attempt at the double — running both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day — is already one of the most talked-about stories in motorsports. With the Fast 12 performance, Larson has proven he belongs on the Indy grid. But as Denny Hamlin sees it, whether Larson finishes near the front or fades into the field will come down to one thing: discipline under pressure.
“He’s got the talent,” Hamlin concluded. “But Indy doesn’t just reward talent. It rewards execution.”
As race day looms, all eyes will be on Larson to see whether he can match the legend of other NASCAR stars who’ve crossed over — or if the Brickyard proves too unforgiving, even for one of racing’s most gifted drivers.
