Indianapolis 500: Larson’s Day Cut Short by Mid-Race Incident
Indianapolis, IN — Kyle Larson’s hopes for a successful debut in the Indianapolis 500 were dashed mid-race after a significant crash while contending for position. Starting from 19th on the grid, Larson navigated the early laps cautiously until an unfortunate restart on lap 140 led to his exit from the race.
As the field resumed racing, Larson, attempting to gain ground, reportedly downshifted too aggressively entering Turn 2. This maneuver caused him to lose control, resulting in a spin that collected both Kyffin Simpson and Sting Ray Robb, who were unable to continue. Larson’s crash saw his car collide with the outside wall, concluding his day early and relegating him to a 27th-place finish.
"It was a bit crazy there on the start. I got tight behind Takuma [Sato]. I was really close to him, and I think I got loose and kind of got all over the place," Larson explained post-race at the infield care center. "I spun and just hate that I got a little too eager there on the restart and caused that crash."
This incident marks a step back for Larson compared to his performance in the previous year, where he finished 18th. Despite this setback, Larson looks ahead to the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, starting from the outside of the front row. By doing so, he will join the ranks of only five drivers to complete the double header of the Indy 500 and Coke 600, though he will not have the chance to match Tony Stewart’s full distance record of 1,100 miles.
The 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion now aims to recover quickly from this setback as he shifts focus to NASCAR competition.
