Kyle Larson has earned the Rookie of the Year award for the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500.
The NASCAR champion tried his hand at IndyCar for the first time this past weekend, starting fifth and ending in 18th after showing an impressive amount of skill in the new discipline behind the wheel of the Arrow McLaren / Rick Hendrick #17 entry.
Larson’s race was undone when he committed a pit lane speed violation over halfway through the race. He was attempting to gain as much time as possible on pit entry, but locked his front tire and slid through the first timing line.
The penalty dropped him from the top 10 down to 22nd and one lap behind the leaders, and he spent the rest of the event climbing back to his ultimate finishing position.
After the race was over, Larson was ferried away quickly to catch a private flight down to Charlotte to run in the NASCAR Coca Cola 600 later in the evening.
His attempt to run both races was part of the attraction for fans and media, and even though it did not work out as planned due to rain delays at both races, he still had a lot of attention focused on him for even making the attempt.
Although Larson was not the highest finishing rookie in the 33 car field, the Rookie of the Year award is not meant to be awarded based on results alone.
As stated on the official ballot forms: “The Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year Award should be presented to the driver who has performed with the most distinction among first-year drivers in the Indianapolis 500. Criteria includes on-track performance in practice, qualifying and the race, media and fan interaction, sportsmanship and positive influence on the Indy 500.”
Larson’s presence was felt throughout the paddock for the entire Month of May, with special merchandise trailers even set up to sell his gear.
Fans were seen wearing Larson shirts and hats all throughout the race weekend, many featuring the “Hendrick 1100” logo that was designed specifically for his attempt at The Double.
Larson’s participation in this year’s Indy 500 was arranged over 16 months ago, and he has said that he has interest in trying to run both events again next year.
For earning the Indy 500 Rookie of the Year, the 31-year-old was awarded a $50,000 bonus which pushed his Indy 500 prize total to $178,000.
Rasmussen should have gotten the rookie of the year! Yes Larson ran a good race but Rasmussen earned this title!