Few feats in motorsports demand more grit, stamina and sheer determination than “The Double” – the daring attempt to race in both the Indianapolis 500 and Coca-Cola 600 on the same day. Sunday, May 25, Hendrick Motorsports standout Kyle Larson will once again chase 1,100 miles, looking to conquer what the team has dubbed “The Hendrick 1100.”

Larson first attempted the challenge in 2024, but rain dampened the effort, delaying the start of the Indianapolis 500 and ultimately ending his chance at completing all 1,100 miles. This year, Larson returns hungrier than ever with eyes set on redemption and a place in motorsports history. 

“I love to race. I love to compete in big events and I love to try new things to challenge myself,” said Larson. “I try to stay focused on making this the best experience I can and getting my car to drive the best it can while also enjoying the moment.” 

RACING’S ULTIMATE TEST

Attempting the feat is more than just showing up. It’s a high-speed, high-stakes marathon that pushes drivers to the limit. From mastering two completely different race cars to navigating the travel from Indianapolis to Charlotte, here’s what makes the challenge such a rare and exciting pursuit:

Two Different Worlds: The day kicks off at the Brickyard with the Indianapolis 500 – open-wheel racing’s crown jewel – before the spotlight shifts to Charlotte Motor Speedway for NASCAR’s toughest test at the Coca-Cola 600 – the sport’s longest and most demanding race. Each event requires a vastly different approach from the precision and aerodynamics of an Indy car to the endurance and strategy required in a stock car.

Physical, Mental Stamina: Two races. One day. Covering 1,100 miles of racing in one day is no ordinary Sunday. It’s a full-day grind that tests the human body like few other athletic endeavors. From switching cars and teams to tight turnarounds, the challenge goes far beyond just racing laps. 

Logistical Madness: With nearly 600 miles separating the two tracks, pulling off the Hendrick 1100 requires a flawless timeline. Helicopters, private jets and split-second coordination are essential to get the driver from track to track while practice, qualifying and media obligations fill the days leading up. While difficult, each inconvenience only makes the payoff event sweeter upon completion. 

LEGENDS OF “THE DOUBLE”:

Over the years, only a handful of elite drivers have dared to take on the epic motorsports crossover. Here are the notable names of the bold drivers who chased the ultimate challenge.

  • John Andretti (1994): As the pioneer of “The Double,” Andretti became the first to try the challenge, finishing 10th at Indy before mechanical issues led to a 36th-place finish at the Coca-Cola 600.
  • Tony Stewart (1999, 2001): Stewart,  the gold standard of “The Double”,  In 2001, he finished sixth at the Indy 500 and third at the Coca-Cola 600, becoming the first driver to ever complete all 1,100 miles.
  • Robby Gordon (1997, 2000, 2002-2004): Gordon attempted the feat multiple times, with mixed results. His best effort came in 2002, completing both races and finishing eighth in Indy and 16th at Charlotte.
  • Kurt Busch (2014): In his only attempt, Busch impressed with a sixth-place finish at Indy but retired early from the Coca-Cola 600 due to engine failure.
  • Kyle Larson (2024): Larson reignited interest in “The Hendrick 1100” with his attempt last season. After an 18th-place finish at the Indy 500, his quest to complete the full 1,100 miles fell short after rain brought the NASCAR affair to an early conclusion. This year, he’s back with experience and unfinished business. 

Larson Doubles Down

With the full force of Hendrick Motorsports behind him and a renewed drive to finish what he started, Larson is all-in on 2025. No stranger to Charlotte Motor Speedway with one 600 win and two ROVAL™ victories, Larson knows what it takes to win at America’s Home for Racing. 

“Last year wasn’t as fun and exciting as people might think,” said Larson. “I was super bummed because I knew I wasn’t going to be able to race in both. I didn’t get to enjoy the pre-race stuff or anything, but hopefully this year it goes better with the weather and I can just enjoy the whole experience.”

TICKETS:

Fans can purchase Coca-Cola 600 weekend tickets, online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or call 1-800-455-FANS (3267). Kids 12 and under get in all weekend for just $10.

MORE INFO:

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