Kyle Larson revealed Sunday that Kevin Harvick will fill-in and practice for him at North Wilkesboro Speedway next month ahead of the NASCAR Cup Series All-Star Race.
Harvick, the FOX Sports analyst, will serve as Larson’s standby driver as he participates in qualifying for the Indianapolis 500 on May 26. Multiple sessions of qualifying take place May 18-19, while the festivities at North Wilkesboro are scheduled May 17-19.
Denny Hamlin said on his “Actions Detrimental” podcast that it’s a “golden” move from a PR perspective for Hendrick Motorsports, while it allows Larson to get some much-needed time in an IndyCar.
“I think it’s a big thing,” Hamlin said. “From a PR perspective, I think it’s golden. Great job making sure that 5 car is definitely going to be a focal point of what we’re talking about during practice and qualifying because you’ve got Kevin Harvick in that car. So, I think it’s genius on their part for sure. While Kyle is at Indy — you don’t have enough reps in those cars to miss any of those practices. So, I think he’s doing the right thing by staying in Indy. … Kevin will drive it, he’ll do a great job and Larson will be a factor when we go to race.”
Kevin Harvick coming out of retirement for All-Star Race?
Harvick, 48, retired from full-time Cup Series competition following the 2023 season. He wrapped up his career 10th on the all-time wins list, with 60 Cup Series victories to his name. Harvick won his first and only Cup Series championship in 2014 — his first season with Stewart-Haas Racing. With his racing career behind him, Harvick transitioned to the announce booth, joining Fox Sports for the 2024 season.
Perhaps one final ride is in store for Harvick after all.
“When Rick called a couple of days ago, he said, ‘Hey, I need a favor,’ and I know when the conversation starts like that, that usually you have to say yes,” Harvick said. “So, I appreciate you guys calling. It’s going to be fun.”
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