For the second consecutive year, Kyle Larson is striving to achieve the ambitious goal known as “The Double,” which involves competing in both the prestigious Indy 500 and the Coke 600 on May 25. However, should weather conditions intervene, Tony Kanaan stands ready to step in as a replacement for Larson, who is the reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion from 2021.
Tony Kanaan, who claimed victory in the Indy 500 back in 2013, transitioned from driving at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway two years ago and has since taken on the role of team principal for Arrow McLaren’s IndyCar operation. To ensure he is prepared to race if called upon, Kanaan undertook a veteran refresher test during the third day of practice for the Indy 500. This evaluation involved driving Larson’s #17 car for 15 laps at speeds ranging from 210 to 215 mph, followed by an additional 15 laps exceeding 215 mph.
Although Kanaan maintained that he has no intention of participating in the Indy 500 for a 23rd time, the experience proved to be emotionally significant for him, especially at the age of 50. “It was fantastic, just like always,” Kanaan remarked during a subsequent press conference at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS). “After my warm-up lap, I came down pit lane and completed an installation lap. I’ve never taken this place or the experience of driving an IndyCar for granted. After two years away, I reflected on how fortunate I was to have the coolest job in the world for 26 years. I just had to keep myself in check for those 30 laps.”
Kanaan humorously added, “If I were to do it again, I might have to reconsider my living situation; I’d be without a wife or kids. She’d definitely divorce me!”
### Tony Kanaan’s Intentions
Despite joking about feeling a “tickle in his belly” during the refresher course, Kanaan firmly stated that he has no desire to compete in the Indy 500 again. His primary focus is on leading Arrow McLaren as their team principal, a position he began in February. “Right now, I carry a significant responsibility with the team, and I’m really enjoying what I’m doing. I believe I retired on my own terms. I’m quite intense, as you know, and I’m completely dedicated to elevating this team to be one of the best in IndyCar, meeting the high standards that everyone expects from us. It was a cool experience, but I’m perfectly fine. I was just joking; I don’t need to get back in the race car,” he said.
### Insights from the Track
Kanaan’s return to the car for 30 laps raised eyebrows within the IMS paddock, particularly considering his extensive experience on the 2.5-mile oval. However, he emphasized that the session was not about making significant improvements but rather about gaining firsthand insight into the car’s performance. “We aimed to be fair and comply with what IndyCar requested. I know we have a solid car. Now, if they complain, they might be in trouble. They probably didn’t want me in the car,” he joked.
In terms of car adjustments, Kanaan noted, “We didn’t really do much. The only tweak we made was to move the steering wheel a bit closer to suit my preferences. We aimed to be fair to the series. But honestly, I got to feel the car, and I’m not complaining. It feels good to me,” he grinned.
### The Transition to Hybrid Technology
During the refresher, Kanaan also had the opportunity to experience driving an IndyCar hybrid, a significant topic of discussion for this year’s Indianapolis 500. Despite the technological advancements, he expressed that he did not perceive any substantial differences. “Honestly, I didn’t think it felt any different. The only thing I can attribute that to is that I took a two-year break, which allowed me to reset a few things. I truly didn’t feel like there was anything dramatically different.”
He continued, “On my own, it felt good. I was aware we had a capable car. It was beneficial to experience the difference in deployment. It’s something that has been talked about, and I probably should have run in traffic a bit more, but I really didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary.”
### The Prioritization of the Coke 600
As the days count down to the Indy 500, Kanaan is aware that his participation is contingent upon weather conditions. He plans to race only if delays force Larson to head to Charlotte Motor Speedway before the green flag waves in Indianapolis, as it’s clear that the Coke 600 is Larson’s top priority. Recently, NASCAR modified the playoff waiver policy, introducing serious implications for any missed races.
“I’m fulfilling all the commitments I have as team principal until they need me on Saturday night. I believe I’ve kept myself in shape and am ready to switch gears and go if needed. I might feel exhausted after the race, and it could take me 15 days to recover since I’m getting older,” Kanaan remarked.
He added, “I’m committed to our sponsors and partners attending this race; it’s a special occasion for them. As the team principal, I won’t think about the race until Sunday morning. If it rains, I’ll just drink a bit more water and get ready. But that’s it.”
### Conclusion
In the high-pressure world of professional racing, the balance between personal aspirations and team responsibilities is delicate. As Tony Kanaan navigates his new role at Arrow McLaren while remaining prepared for the possibility of returning to the driver’s seat, his dedication to the team and the sport shines through. With his extensive experience and leadership, Kanaan is poised to contribute to the team’s success in the upcoming Indy 500 and beyond.
