Hendrick Motorsports vice chairman Jeff Gordon has voiced a serious warning to Kyle Larson as he gears up for another attempt at completing the demanding “Double Duty” challenge—competing in both the Indianapolis 500 and NASCAR’s Coca-Cola 600 on the same day in 2025. Larson, who clinched the NASCAR Cup Series title in 2021, is planning to replicate the rare feat once again, having first attempted it in 2024. However, weather complications last year prevented him from participating in the Coca-Cola 600, a situation that drew concern from NASCAR officials and now places him under closer scrutiny.
According to Gordon, NASCAR has made it clear that the Coca-Cola 600—one of the sport’s marquee and longest races—must remain Larson’s top priority. Missing the 600 again, even for unforeseen reasons like weather delays in Indianapolis, could trigger disciplinary measures. Gordon stressed that while the opportunity to compete in both events is thrilling, it also comes with intense logistical challenges and physical demands that can’t be taken lightly.
Larson, piloting the No. 5 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports and partnering with Arrow McLaren for the IndyCar side of the challenge, faces a delicate balancing act. His 2024 Cup Series season was a standout, with six victories, making his presence in NASCAR events even more critical. Gordon urged meticulous preparation, emphasizing that any misstep could derail both Larson’s dual-racing aspirations and his standing in the Cup Series.
As anticipation builds for the 2025 race day, all eyes will be on Larson—not just for his on-track performance, but for how he navigates the high-stakes scheduling gamble.
