Roger Penske believes ‘iron-man’ Kyle Larson can attract a massive crowd in the 2024 Indy 500

Under Penske's management, the Indianapolis 500 has gained traction, with increased attendance and television ratings.

Roger Penske believes ‘iron-man’ Kyle Larson can attract a massive crowd in the 2024 Indy 500

Kyle Larson with fans (left, credits: mpnnow.com) and Roger Penske (Right, credits: Los Angels Times)

Anticipation surrounding Kyle Larson‘s imminent IndyCar debut is electric. As a NASCAR champion, he ventures into new realms with Arrow McLaren for the prestigious Indianapolis 500 rookie orientation this October. Larson humbly embraces the forthcoming learning curve. Roger Penske‘s ambitious wager rides on Larson’s star power and debut, aiming to magnetize a massive crowd.

Kyle Larson’s 2024 Arrow McLaren ride was revealed hours after his Knoxville Nationals win, he is aiming to achieve “the double”. “I’m extremely excited, but at the same time, I’m so busy racing and trying to take care of my family, it hasn’t really set in yet that it’s truly a reality,” Larson shares, capturing the mix of emotions enveloping his impending debut. Larson anticipates the depth of the challenge and knows “it’s going to get way more in-depth as we get more into it.” 

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Roger Penske, known for his ownership of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, envisions Larson’s debut as transformative. Speaking to NBC about Larson’s ability to generate more crowd, Penske said, “To see Kyle, what he has been able to do in every other type of race car will be a real journey for all of the fans here in Indianapolis.” Penske is betting on Larson’s fame and hopes to generate more excitement to the already anticipated one. 

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Penske’s vision continues as he anticipates Larson’s impact and believes it “will be an amazing thing.” Describing Larson as an “Ironman,” Penske believes Larson has a personal goal to achieve and excel. Additionally, he acknowledges the excitement for a massive turnout, remarking, “Well, there is always more room to put people in the infield. If we have over 300,000 people again, it will be an amazing weekend.”

Discover: Kyle Larson laments the mistake at Indy that cost him a podium finish

Gavin Ward believes that Kyle Larson will have an advantage from their advanced racing program

Gavin Ward and Kyle Larson
Gavin Ward and Kyle Larson (Credits: Autoracing1)

Gavin Ward, the racing director at Arrow McLaren, brings attention to Larson’s strategic edge by mentioning that Larson’s proximity to the Chevrolet Technical Center has proven beneficial. He explains that this advantage stems from the fact that they are often engaged there, diligently advancing their program. 

Larson’s own reflections offer a window into his preparations as he said, “I did Mid-Ohio, and when I first got in it, I thought I would be out of control and go in the grass, all this stuff.” He added, “I was like, ‘OK, I feel like I’m doing all right,’ like I felt like I got into a rhythm.” He revealed that he is yet to adapt to the Indycar’s braking but was excited about how the telemetry works. 

Confronting this crucial juncture, Larson candidly discloses his aspirations of emerging as an improved race car driver. Bolstered by backing from Arrow McLaren, Chevrolet, and fellow drivers, Larson warmly embraces the trials inherent in this fresh chapter. His odyssey beautifully parallels the intrinsic spirit of racing: an unwavering quest for advancement and supremacy.

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