# Kyle Larson Faces Backlash After Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Shocking Statement
In a stunning turn of events just minutes ago, NASCAR superstar Kyle Larson finds himself at the center of controversy following a bombshell statement from racing legend Dale Earnhardt Jr. The remarks, aired on the latest episode of the *Dale Jr. Download* podcast, have sent shockwaves through the NASCAR community, casting doubt on Larson’s ambitious pursuit of “The Double”—competing in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day.
Earnhardt Jr., a two-time Daytona 500 champion and respected voice in motorsports, expressed strong reservations about Larson’s decision to attempt The Double again in 2025. “From a fan standpoint, I won’t be that excited about an announcement for him to do it again,” Earnhardt said. “I’ll be more like, ‘C’mon, man. Go win the [Coca-Cola] 600.’” He argued that Larson’s focus on the Indy 500 detracts from his potential to dominate NASCAR’s crown jewel event, the Coca-Cola 600, where he believes Larson could have secured a victory had he not been distracted by Indy.
Larson’s second attempt at The Double this past Memorial Day Weekend ended in disappointment, with wrecks in both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600. Despite high hopes from fans, the logistical nightmare of racing 1,100 miles in a single day proved too much, compounded by tight scheduling and a new NASCAR rule. This rule, introduced after Larson’s 2024 rain-delayed Indy 500 forced him to miss the start of the Coca-Cola 600, could penalize him by stripping away playoff points if he prioritizes Indy again.
Earnhardt’s comments have ignited a firestorm on social media, with fans and analysts divided. Some agree with Junior, believing Larson’s talents are better suited to focusing on NASCAR’s championship chase. “Larson’s the best we’ve got. Why risk it all for Indy?” one fan posted on X. Others defend Larson’s ambition, praising his versatility and courage to tackle both series. “He’s chasing history. Let him cook!” another user countered.
For Larson, the criticism adds pressure to an already challenging season. Despite leading the Cup Series points standings with three wins in 2025, including a dominant performance at Kansas, the Hendrick Motorsports driver now faces scrutiny over his priorities. Earnhardt’s remarks suggest that Larson’s pursuit of The Double may not only jeopardize his NASCAR success but also alienate fans who want to see him dominate on home turf.
As the NASCAR season progresses, Larson must weigh his ambitions against the expectations of fans and peers. Will he heed Earnhardt’s advice and focus solely on the Coca-Cola 600, or will he defy the naysayers and attempt The Double again in 2026? With the racing world watching, Larson’s next move could define his legacy. For now, the fallout from Earnhardt’s statement has left Larson navigating uncharted waters, both on and off the track.
