When you talk about the best driver in the world, many fans will name the three-time reigning champion of Formula 1. But Alexander Rossi, who’s raced against both Max Verstappen and NASCAR star Kyle Larson, believes Larson is up there with the best. Rossi, who’s now teammates with Larson for the Indianapolis 500, thinks Larson is “The Man.”
Larson, qualifying fifth for his first Indy 500, then raced at North Wilkesboro Speedway in NASCAR’s All-Star race the same night, finishing fourth. This Sunday, he’ll attempt “The Double” by racing both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte.
While Tony Stewart is the only driver to complete both races in 2001, Larson’s seen as a contender to win both this year. He’s among the favorites for both races according to BetMGM Sportsbook.
Larson’s Indy 500 deal is a partnership between Arrow McLaren Racing and Hendrick Motorsports. Jeff Gordon, among the Hendrick executives, watched Larson qualify at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Rossi, who won the Indy 500 as a rookie in 2016, finds the idea of Larson winning it mind-blowing. Larson felt similarly last year after NASCAR’s street-course race in Chicago, won by Shane van Gisbergen in his debut.
Two-time IndyCar champion Alex Palou believes Larson’s win wouldn’t hurt the Indy 500’s prestige. Larson returned to Indianapolis Motor Speedway after the All-Star race on Monday for the traditional photograph with the Borg-Warner Trophy.
When asked about comparisons to Verstappen, Larson dismissed the idea, saying he couldn’t beat him in an F1 car. Larson hopes he could beat Verstappen in a sprint car. He finds the conversation about being the best driver across disciplines hypothetical and a waste of time.
Like it or not, Larson will make his case on Sunday.
