Kyle Larson is set to drive in the Indianapolis 500, but in a recent revelation, it was disclosed that Kyle Busch almost had the opportunity first. Busch, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, has been wanting to participate in the Indy 500 for the better part of a decade, following in his older brother Kurt's footsteps.

Busch recounted two instances where he believed the deal was finalized. The first was in 2017 when M&M's was prepared to sponsor his Indy 500 attempt. However, Joe Gibbs, the owner of Joe Gibbs Racing, reportedly vetoed the plan, despite approvals from Chevrolet, Toyota, and M&M's. Until recently, Gibbs was known for preventing his drivers from competing in other racing disciplines, but has finally relented, allowing drivers like Christopher Bell, Ty Gibbs, and Chase Briscoe to participate in extracurricular racing activities.

After leaving Joe Gibbs Racing after the 2022 season, Busch thought he had another opportunity to race, this time with the blessing of Richard Childress, his current owner. However, Kyle Larson ultimately signed the deal with Arrow McLaren, taking the opportunity from Busch.

Busch said that he had a sponsor ready and in talks with Zac Brown, and the deal was nearly complete. Brown then told the sponsor that they would need to buy the car. The sponsor declined because they only wanted to sponsor Busch to drive the car, not own it. Brown said the purchase would be in case the car was wrecked. Soon after, the sponsor informed Busch that the opportunity was gone because Larson had signed a two-year deal, while Busch's deal was only for one year.

Larson is again partnering with Arrow McLaren Racing and is aiming to complete the full 1,100 miles and win both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600. In May 2024, Larson became the fifth driver in history to attempt to complete both races on the same day. However, the start of the Indy 500 was delayed by several hours due to rain, and Hendrick Motorsports decided to keep him at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. According to Hendrick, weather cost them a lot. For his second attempt, Larson has committed to NASCAR and the Coca-Cola 600. If weather interferes, Tony Kanaan, Arrow McLaren sporting director, will replace Larson in the car at Indy.

Larson has said he is excited for the opportunity to attempt the "Double" again and wants to win both races. Following his win at Kansas Speedway, Larson stated he would begin to focus on the Indy 500/Coca-Cola 600.