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IMS’ Millionaire President Declares Hendrick Motorsports’ “Mount Everest of Motorsports”

Published 08/17/2023, 9:19 AM EDT

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In a captivating convergence of speed and ambition, Hendrick Motorsports driver Kyle Larson is on the verge of a remarkable transition, poised to make his debut in the 108th running of the Indy 500 next May. The road to this exciting new chapter has been meticulously paved with precision and preparation, showcasing Larson’s determination to master a new realm of motorsport.

Sustaining the excitement around this electrifying feat is the fact that Larson will be donning two legendary team colors: he will roar onto the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the distinctive hues of McLaren for the Indy 500 and then seamlessly transition to the powerhouse Hendrick Motorsports outfit for the Coca-Cola 600—a logistical ballet that promises to captivate fans around the globe.

Mount Everest of motorsports”, the IMS president’s profound perspective

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Joining the exclusive ranks of legendary drivers like John Andretti, Kurt Busch, Robby Gordon, and Tony Stewart, who have previously embarked on the Memorial Day doubleheader challenge, Kyle Larson stands on the precipice of unparalleled glory. With a ten-year hiatus, since the last contender attempted this monumental endeavor, the motorsports universe is collectively holding its breath in anticipation of Larson’s audacious performance.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway president, Doug Boles, stated, “It’s the greatest day of Motorsports. We were talking earlier. If you think about this, this is the Mount Everest of Motorsports, right? That five of the drivers before Kyle have tried this out and that with Kyle’s resources, being with Arrow McLaren and then you know with Hendricks resources, all of that coming together.” 

“I mean, there’s a real chance this, this happens. What a greater day than to have you know to say Kyle Larson wins the Indy 500. We were talking about, you know the compressed time scale that would concur and how to interject the fans would be to see Kyle win this race and want him just to win the Coca-cola 600.”

A crucial milestone on this journey is gaining clearance as a rookie. This hurdle has been deftly arranged for a test in October. At unveiling his #17 car’s livery at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, racing director Gavin Ward shared insights into Larson’s upcoming adventure. “We’ve got the seat fit down,” Ward remarked. “We’re getting ready to do some first real running here in October.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Bubba Wallace Has a Brutal 8 Word Response for Boss Denny Hamlin Jeopardizing His Friendship With Kyle Larson

Behind Larson’s imminent IndyCar debut lies a symphony of partnerships. So what are his Boss’s thoughts on this new expedition?

Bosses speak: Hendrick Motorsports owner’s excitement and legacy-building

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The McLaren project not only marks veteran NASCAR team boss Rick Hendrick’s foray into IndyCar racing but also brings the collaborative spirit of motorsport to the forefront. “We’re just real excited to think we can partner with a world-class team that has tremendous speed and reputation,” Rick Hendrick expressed.

Reflecting on his motorsport adventures, Hendrick exuded gratitude for the opportunity that unfolded before him. “Daytona and the Indy 500 – and I got to do the 24 Hours of Le Mans – so I’m kind of getting my bucketful here,” he quipped. The McLaren collaboration has the potential to not just be a fleeting moment but to evolve into a legacy-defining journey, as McLaren’s racing chief executive Zak Brown hinted in January.

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As the pages of this racing saga continue to turn, Larson’s transition from NASCAR glory to IndyCar promise unfolds with each calculated step. From simulators to seat fittings, from nerves to anticipation, the road to the Indy 500 grid is a tapestry woven with skill, partnerships, and dreams.

 

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Written by:

Brahmi Dhaytadak

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Brahmi Dhaytadak is a NASCAR Writer at EssentiallySports. She combines her love for F1, Tennis, and NASCAR into electrifying prose that sets the hearts of her readers racing. Whether it was the finesse of Charles Leclerc's maneuvers around Monaco or the artistry of Roger Federer's racket, everything inspired Brahmi to venture into the field of sports journalism.
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Edited by:

Shivali Nathta