Cup Series Champion Considers Taking on the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 in Same Day
In the world of motorsports, few feats are more daunting—or more revered—than “The Double.” The challenge? Competing in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day. It’s a test of physical endurance, mental sharpness, and logistical coordination that only a handful of drivers have dared attempt. Now, NASCAR Cup Series champion Ryan Blaney is contemplating adding his name to that exclusive list.
Blaney, fresh off a strong showing in the 2025 NASCAR season, spoke candidly this week about the possibility of one day pulling off the grueling 1,100-mile racing marathon. The idea, once thought of as a career novelty, has gained renewed attention in recent years as crossover interest between NASCAR and IndyCar grows.
“I’ve always thought it would be amazing to try The Double,” Blaney said during a press conference at Charlotte Motor Speedway. “It’s one of the coolest challenges in motorsports. I’ve talked to a few people about it, and I wouldn’t rule it out at some point in my career.”
Blaney would be far from the first to consider it, but only a few have actually gone through with the endeavor. John Andretti was the pioneer in 1994, and since then, only Tony Stewart, Robby Gordon, and Kurt Busch have attempted both races in one day. Stewart remains the only driver to complete all 1,100 miles, finishing sixth at Indy and third at Charlotte in 2001.
Blaney said that his interest in IndyCar goes back to childhood, growing up in a racing family that appreciated all forms of motorsport.
“I grew up watching the Indy 500 every year with my dad,” Blaney shared. “It’s one of those races that’s just iconic, no matter what series you come from. I think any driver would love the opportunity to be part of that history.”
The logistics of The Double are incredibly demanding. The Indianapolis 500 typically begins around 12:45 p.m. ET, and the Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte starts at 6:00 p.m. A driver attempting both must finish the 500-mile IndyCar race, immediately hop on a helicopter or private jet, and rush to Charlotte in time to get strapped into a stock car for NASCAR’s longest race. Add in potential weather delays, travel complications, and the sheer physical exhaustion from running two high-speed races back to back, and the challenge becomes even more daunting.
Still, the allure remains strong.
Blaney acknowledged the physical and mental toll such an effort would take. “You’d have to be in top shape, physically and mentally. It’s not just about driving two races—it’s about switching disciplines on the fly. IndyCars and Cup cars handle so differently. It would take a lot of preparation.”
Despite the challenges, Blaney said he’s had preliminary conversations with both NASCAR and IndyCar teams about what such an attempt might look like. While there’s nothing concrete on the table yet, he’s leaving the door wide open.
“I’ve had a few informal talks,” Blaney said. “Nothing serious yet. But if the timing and opportunity were right—if the right team and car came along at Indy—I’d seriously consider it.”
Team Penske, Blaney’s longtime NASCAR home, could be key to making it happen. Penske also fields one of the top IndyCar teams and owns the Indianapolis Motor Speedway itself, offering a unique infrastructure that could support a Double attempt more seamlessly than other organizations.
Penske teammate and 2018 Indy 500 winner Will Power was quick to endorse the idea. “I think Ryan would do great,” Power said. “He’s a smart driver, and he’s got the temperament for both series. If anyone could pull it off, he could.”
Fans and pundits have speculated for years about who might be next to take on The Double. Kyle Larson was set to attempt it in 2024 before rain at Indianapolis canceled his plans mid-day. Others, including Kyle Busch and Chase Elliott, have expressed interest but have yet to commit.
Blaney’s star power and competitive fire make him an intriguing candidate. The 2023 NASCAR Cup Series champion has earned a reputation as one of the sport’s most consistent and cerebral drivers. With multiple wins, deep playoff runs, and a growing resume, he’s already cemented himself as a top-tier talent in stock car racing.
Now, he’s looking for the next big challenge.
“I want to push myself,” Blaney said. “I love what I do in NASCAR, but the idea of branching out, testing myself in something totally different—it excites me. You only get so many chances to do something historic.”
Whether or not Blaney ever takes the green flag at both Indianapolis and Charlotte on the same day, his interest has added fresh energy to one of racing’s most legendary challenges. It also reflects the growing cooperation and crossover appeal between NASCAR and IndyCar—a trend that fans of both series are happy to see.
For now, Blaney remains focused on his NASCAR campaign. But come Memorial Day weekend in the near future, don’t be surprised if he’s boarding a jet, helmet in hand, ready to chase racing immortality.
