The intention of Kyle Larson was to perform ‘Double Duty’ in the United States, but unfortunately, the weather interfered.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown has said he would be “very comfortable” offering American star Kyle Larson an F1 test in future following his stunning Indy 500 debut.
Having had no prior experience in the series, Larson’s debut in the flagship Indianapolis 500 race last weekend was remarkable. He received widespread praise for placing his Arrow McLaren on the second row of the grid.
Zak Brown would ‘love to’ see Kyle Larson try F1 machinery
Due to weather delays in Indianapolis, the 31-year-old was unable to make it to Charlotte, North Carolina in time for his second race of the day. Originally, he had been scheduled to perform ‘Double Duty’ on Sunday, attempting both the Indy 500 and NASCAR’s Coca-Cola 600 on the same day.
Larson’s huge success in NASCAR and other categories, from dirt ovals to winning the 2015 edition of the 24 Hours of Daytona, led former Formula 1 driver and current IndyCar star Alexander Rossi to put him “on the same level” as reigning World Champion Max Verstappen for ability.
In the past, Brown has shown a willingness to provide drivers from different disciplines with a chance to experience Formula 1 cars. He strongly believes that Larson would be a suitable candidate for this opportunity.
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“I’d love to see him have a go in a Formula 1 car,” Brown said to media at the Indy 500, as per The Race.
I have personally discussed this matter with Kyle, as one would anticipate. However, it is important to note that I didn’t engage in such discussions solely to secure his participation in driving for us at Indy.
However, he possesses remarkable talent. I believe he would excel.
However, it is evident that he is undeniably a NASCAR driver, and he always has been and always will be. It is crucial to acknowledge the realistic path one must take to become a Formula 1 driver.
However, in terms of providing him with the opportunity to drive a Formula 1 car as a way to reward and bring him joy, I believe it would also be beneficial for our brand. Both NASCAR and Formula 1 fans would likely find it exciting and appealing.
“So I would be very comfortable doing it at the right time.”
Rossi’s assertion that Larson and Verstappen are “equally skilled” surprised those unfamiliar with Larson’s accomplishments. However, the McLaren CEO highlighted the challenges in comparing them directly due to their different racing backgrounds.
Nevertheless, he made sure to express his conviction that the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion ranks among the finest drivers globally.
Brown stated, “In my opinion, there is no need for anyone to get worked up about Rossi’s statement, as the distinction between NASCAR and Formula 1 is similar to that between baseball and football.”
“Do I believe that Kyle is the epitome of a skilled NASCAR racing driver and has demonstrated his capabilities in an IndyCar? Absolutely. He is the epitome of excellence in his field.”
“Max is the epitome of excellence in his discipline.”
In my opinion, it’s difficult to make a direct comparison between them. I would simply state that the first person is the best football player globally, the second is the best baseball player globally, and the third is one of the top basketball players globally.
From that perspective, undoubtedly, Kyle stands as one of the finest racing drivers globally.
No, I do not believe he has the ability to jump into the Red Bull and secure victory in the Formula 1 World Championship.
“I highly doubt that Max Verstappen would be able to jump into the Hendrick NASCAR and emerge victorious in the NASCAR championship.”
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