The motorsport world is abuzz with excitement as the 2021 NASCAR Cup champion, Kyle Larson, gears up to make his highly anticipated IndyCar debut in the prestigious blue riband event. Teaming up with Arrow McLaren in partnership with Hendrick Motorsports, Larson recently completed a productive test session at Phoenix Raceway, logging an impressive 172 laps. As fans eagerly await Larson’s debut in May, let’s take a closer look at his performance during the test and analyze his potential in the IndyCar series.
Reflecting on his test session, Larson described it as a smooth experience, despite facing some minor challenges. He spent three to four hours on the track, familiarizing himself with the nuances of driving an IndyCar, including pitstop procedures. Larson admitted that he had a moment when he almost spun out while pushing the limits of the car. However, he was able to quickly correct it, highlighting the sharp difference between being in control and losing control in an IndyCar.
Larson candidly shared his observations about the similarities and differences between the IndyCar and Cup Car. Despite the higher speeds in an IndyCar, Larson found the characteristics of the two cars to be quite similar, particularly at Phoenix Raceway. He highlighted the heightened intensity of driving an IndyCar, with decisions and actions needing to be made much more rapidly. The razor-thin line between success and failure became more pronounced for Larson during this test, emphasizing the need for exceptional precision and split-second decision-making.
During the test, Larson felt that he was inching closer to the limit of the car’s capabilities. However, he also believed that there was more speed to extract from the car. Desiring to have a benchmark for comparison, Larson expressed his wish for another driver to join him during the test. This would have provided him with invaluable data analysis and an opportunity to gauge his own performance against a seasoned IndyCar driver. Sadly, with no other participants present, Larson had to rely on historical data from 2018 when the series last raced at Phoenix Raceway.
While relying on past data and going off his own feel might seem unconventional in today’s data-rich motorsport landscape, Larson found the experience comforting and reminiscent of old-school testing methods. Being able to trust his instincts and rely on his own judgment, without the distractions of contemporaneous data comparisons, allowed Larson to fully immerse himself in the car and the track.
Comparing his recent test to his previous outing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway during the Rookie Orientation Programme, Larson noted several differences. The smaller size of Phoenix Raceway presented unique challenges, with tighter corners and quick decision-making moments. Larson mentioned the need to lift off the throttle, a requirement rarely encountered at the superspeedway in Indianapolis. Despite some initial discomfort, he relished the opportunity to tackle a more demanding track and expand his skill set.
As Kyle Larson prepares to embark on his IndyCar journey, his impressive test session at Phoenix Raceway offers a glimpse into his potential in the series. With his smooth and methodical approach, Larson demonstrated his adaptability and willingness to push the limits. While he acknowledged the similarities between the Cup Car and the IndyCar, he also acknowledged that the IndyCar’s higher speeds and increased intensity present unique challenges. With room for growth and improvement, Larson’s debut in May promises to be an exciting spectacle, as he aims to make a seamless transition from NASCAR to IndyCar.
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