Kyle Busch Voices Safety Concerns After Kyle Larson’s Indy 500 Crash
In a dramatic turn of events during the lead-up to the 2025 Indianapolis 500, NASCAR star Kyle Busch took to social media to express his concerns over the safety of IndyCar racing, specifically addressing fellow driver Kyle Larson after a series of alarming crashes. The incidents, which occurred during practice and qualifying sessions, have sparked a broader conversation about the risks of high-speed racing and the challenges drivers face at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Larson, who is attempting the grueling Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 “Double” for the second consecutive year, experienced a frightening crash during Friday’s practice session. On just his third lap, Larson lost control of his Arrow McLaren car entering Turn 3, slamming into the outside wall and damaging the nose of his vehicle. This was Larson’s second crash in the Indy 500 buildup, having also wrecked during an open test session on April 24. Despite the incidents, Larson remained composed, stating, “The speed didn’t scare me or anything like that,” and qualified 21st for the race.
Busch, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, was at North Wilkesboro Speedway preparing for the NASCAR All-Star Race when he reacted to the string of IndyCar crashes. Taking to X, Busch posted, “This year Indycar qualifying… NO THANKS!! All you @KyleLarsonRacin 👏🏻👊🏻 stay safe boys!” His message was both a nod to Larson’s bold attempt at the Double and a stark warning about the dangerous conditions at Indianapolis. Busch’s comments came as other drivers, including Colton Herta and Scott McLaughlin, also suffered violent crashes during the same weekend. Herta’s car flipped upside down, while McLaughlin’s lost a wheel after hitting the wall, highlighting the perilous nature of the qualifying sessions.
The crashes have reignited discussions about safety in IndyCar, particularly during high-speed qualifying runs where cars reach speeds of 215-220 mph. Busch, who revealed on Denny Hamlin’s Actions Detrimental podcast that he nearly secured a deal to race in this year’s Indy 500 before Larson took the opportunity, expressed relief at not participating. “I had it signed, sealed, and delivered,” Busch said, noting that sponsorship issues led to Larson securing the McLaren seat. His comments suggest a mix of respect for Larson’s ambition and concern for the risks involved.
Larson, known for his adaptability and fearless driving style, shrugged off the incidents, emphasizing his ability to stay focused. His team principal, Tony Kanaan, praised Larson’s resilience, saying, “Kyle’s a true racer. He adapts quickly and complains less than most.” However, Busch’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among some NASCAR drivers about the inherent dangers of IndyCar’s open-wheel racing, especially on a high-speed oval like Indianapolis.
As Larson prepares for the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600, Busch’s warning serves as a reminder of the fine line between speed and safety in motorsport. With the racing world watching, Larson’s attempt at the Double will be as much a test of courage as it is of skill.
