Indianapolis 500 Start Delayed Due to Rain
The 109th running of the Indianapolis 500 faced a delay in its start, originally scheduled for 12:45 PM EST, as light rain fell over the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Although pre-race ceremonies concluded as planned, officials halted the command to start engines due to ongoing sprinkles. Weather forecasts indicate no significant risks to completing the race today.
The delay poses a challenge for Kyle Larson in his pursuit of completing the Indy 500/Coke 600 Double, a rare feat only achieved by four drivers, with Tony Stewart as the sole driver to finish all 1,100 miles in one day. Larson’s tight schedule requires him to finish the Indy 500 in time to compete in the NASCAR race at Charlotte. Last year, rain disrupted his attempt, causing him to miss the start of the Coca-Cola 600.
In a precautionary measure, Tony Kanaan is on standby to drive the No. 17 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet should Larson need to exit the race.
On a competitive note, rookie Robert Shwartzman will lead the field to the green flag in the No. 83 Prema Racing Chevrolet, sharing the front row with Takuma Sato and Pato O’Ward.
As the race awaits its start, the motorsports community remains on alert, with Larson’s pursuit of a historic double hanging in the balance.
