INDIANAPOLIS — Kyle Larson spent May attempting to complete 1,100 miles of racing in a single day.
His ambitious goal was thwarted by rain in Indianapolis and Charlotte.
Now, the 2021 NASCAR champion is back in Indianapolis for the first time since his debut in the Indy 500, armed with a new mindset and a fresh appreciation for the iconic 2.5-mile oval track.
“I haven’t really thought about what the 500 will mean this week or if it will change my perspective,” Larson said leading up to the Brickyard 400. “Everyone at the facility has elevated it to another level.”
Larson’s focus this week goes beyond just logistics and aesthetics.
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Since the Indy 500, Larson has only secured one win and one top-five finish in his last five races.
Recent races have been tough for Larson, leaving him trailing behind his Hendrick Motorsports teammate Chase Elliott in the Cup standings.
The competition at the top is fierce, with Reddick, Hamlin, and Byron all close behind Elliott.
While some think Larson’s prior experience in Indy could give him an edge in the upcoming Brickyard race, Larson believes otherwise.
Practice and qualifying sessions leading up to the race will be far less extensive compared to the IndyCar events in May.
Indianapolis has not been kind to Larson in the past, with only two top-fives in nine career Brickyard starts.
Despite some disappointing results, Larson remains focused on the upcoming race and the challenge ahead.
Fortunately, the forecast for the weekend looks promising with minimal chances of rain and pleasant temperatures.
As Larson prepares to race on the oval track, he acknowledges that the atmosphere may not be the same without the NASCAR-IndyCar doubleheader, but he still appreciates the beauty and prestige of the Indianapolis facility.
