Tony Stewart Backs Kyle Larson’s Bid to Break His Double Duty Record
NASCAR and IndyCar legend Tony Stewart is throwing his full support behind Kyle Larson as the Hendrick Motorsports driver prepares to attempt the legendary “Double Duty” — racing in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day.
Stewart, who in 2001 became the only driver to complete all 1,100 miles across both races in a single day, says he’s not threatened by the potential of Larson surpassing his record. Instead, he’s rooting for him.
“No! Not at all! Man, I am a huge Kyle Larson fan,” Stewart said during a recent episode of the Rubbin is Racing podcast. “I grew up racing in the dirt space just like he did. I am a fan! Records are made to be broken. It’s inevitable. It’s gonna happen at some point. I think Kyle is the guy who could legitimately do that.”
Larson made his first attempt at the Double Duty in 2024, but bad weather and a pit lane penalty at Indianapolis derailed his chances. He’s now aiming for redemption in 2025, with preparations in full swing for Memorial Day Weekend.
Stewart, who has firsthand experience with the grueling physical and mental toll of the challenge, offered simple but critical advice: “You can’t make mistakes. You have to be perfect in both races.”
Larson is widely regarded as one of the most versatile drivers in motorsports today. With strong showings across NASCAR, dirt racing, and now IndyCar, he’s poised to make history — if everything goes right.
As the motorsports world watches with anticipation, Stewart’s support adds fuel to Larson’s fire. The racing icon made it clear: if anyone is going to break his record, he’s glad it might be Larson.
