Jack Hewitt and Al Unser Sr. exemplify that age does not restrict a determined racer from achieving success at the Indianapolis 500. Hewitt debuted in the event at 46 years and 7 months, while Unser Sr. claimed victory just shy of his 48th birthday. Following this legacy, Kyle Busch’s potential Indy 500 entrance remains a realistic goal despite his 40 years.

Busch, a two-time Cup Series champion, has pushed repeatedly to enter the Indianapolis 500, reflecting his hunger for open-wheel racing glory. Past chances arose, notably in 2017 when sponsorship was secured, but Joe Gibbs, his then Cup Series team owner, did not allow Busch to compete. Another opportunity appeared as Kyle Larson began his IndyCar journey, but Busch again was unable to finalize the plan to race.

Busch’s Unrelenting Ambition to Race at Indianapolis

Despite setbacks, Busch’s resolve is far from broken. On a recent SiriusXM NASCAR Radio show, he reaffirmed his strong desire to take part in the Indy 500, weighing the timing of such a move in relation to his NASCAR career. He shared,

I have seen the issues that Larson had the last couple of years with the weather. That definitely does not seem fun. It seems like a lot of anxiety for not a lot of payoff. Anything is possible. I certainly wouldn’t throw it out. Whether or not I do it, post my Cup Series career just to go do it, just to go run it.

—Kyle Busch

He also emphasized that competing in the Indy 500 remains a top priority on his motorsport bucket list, underlining his intense passion and determination to experience the event firsthand.

How Kyle Larson’s IndyCar Success Affected Busch’s Opportunities

Having a Cup Series champion race in the Indianapolis 500 benefits both NASCAR and IndyCar by drawing cross-series attention. However, when choosing between Busch and Larson, teams such as Arrow McLaren opted for Larson due to his recent performances. This decision contributed to Busch’s extended wait for an opportunity.

Richard Childress, who currently owns Busch’s NASCAR team, expressed interest in supporting his driver’s Indianapolis ambitions through 2023 and 2024. Nonetheless, Arrow McLaren partnered with Kyle Larson and Rick Hendrick, focusing on Larson’s rising IndyCar profile. This left Busch anticipating a potential offer that has yet to arrive.

Reflecting on the situation in a May interview, Busch remarked,

I wouldn’t say I have given up on it, but the phone hasn’t been ringing. I think Larson has got the seat I was supposed to get for the last two years.

—Kyle Busch

The Narrow Window for Busch’s Indianapolis 500 Pursuit Before Retirement

At 40 years old, Busch faces a limited timeframe for competitive participation in NASCAR’s Cup Series as well as the physically demanding Indy 500. Attempting the doubleheader of the Coca-Cola 600 and Indianapolis 500 on the same day—a rare challenge known simply as “the Double”—becomes increasingly impractical with age.

Given these constraints, Busch may find it preferable to pursue the Indy 500 after retiring from NASCAR. Yet, coordinating all factors such as team support, sponsorship, and physical readiness might complicate these plans.

Regardless of the timing, Busch’s persistence highlights his lasting passion for the sport and fuels hope that he will fulfill his dream of racing at Indianapolis before ending his motorsports career.