Kyle Larson claims he ‘didn’t feel surprised by IndyCar machinery’ after conquering the Indy 500 Rookie Orientation Program

Kyle Larson is attempting for "the double" in May 2024, a feat only four drivers have ever attempted it before.

Kyle Larson claims he ‘didn’t feel surprised by IndyCar machinery’ after conquering the Indy 500 Rookie Orientation Program

Kyle Larson (Via IMAGO)

Hendricks Motorsports’ Kyle Larson masterfully completed Indycar’s Rookie Orientation Program (ROP) at the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a pivotal step in gearing up for the 2024 Indianapolis 500. Piloting the #6 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, Larson seamlessly conquered the three phases of the program, maneuvering through precise speed and lap prerequisites on the expansive 2.5-mile oval circuit.

Larson showed his mettle at the IMS, navigating 72 laps precisely and achieving a remarkable top speed of 217.898 mph. His runs were observed keenly by the Arrow McLaren team and, guided by former Indy 500 champion Tony Kanaan, solidified Larson’s readiness for the esteemed Indianapolis 500.

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Post ROP, Larson, in an interview with SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, noted, “Everything went smoothly. I didn’t feel surprised by too much, other than maybe the car pulling left more than expected.” He acknowledged the support and expressed gratitude towards Arrow McLaren and Tony Kanaan for meticulous preparation and guidance.

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The 2021 champion exuded comfort, expressing, “For the most part, I felt comfortable, obviously, just by myself.” However, he acknowledged the impending challenge as the downforce trims and the proximity to other cars loom on the horizon, foreseeing the potential sketchiness of the journey ahead.

Discover: IndyCar legend Tony Kanaan claims Kyle Larson is one of the best drivers in the world

Kyle Larson is delighted to have finished the testing so soon as he can shift his focus to the playoffs

Larson is currently gunning for his second title this year and has made it into the R8 of the playoffs. He was delighted to dust his hands off of Indycar sooner rather than later as he felt he could now totally shift his focus on his championship hunt. He claimed he had an enjoyable day and was “glad to get it out of the way and get focused on, well, really the rest of the NASCAR playoff.” 

Tony Kannan and Kyle Larson
Tony Kannan and Kyle Larson (Via IMAGO)

Sporting director Tony Kanaan, a former Indy 500 champion, praised Larson’s adaptability. Completing the ROP isn’t just a checkbox; it’s the golden ticket to the Indianapolis 500. As Larson gears up for the rest of the NASCAR season, he is all charged up to return behind his No:6 Arrow McLaren in May.

As the 2021 champion charts his course for Memorial Day weekend in 2024, preparing to pull off “the double,” which is to grace both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600, he enters the hallowed halls of history. A rare feat attempted by only four before him, Larson’s audacious pursuit adds a layer of anticipation to an already storied racing career.

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