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Kyle Larson Issued Apology Following The Indy 500

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated May 29, 2025 1:39 PM ET

During the Indy 500 last weekend, Kyle Larson received backlash for the way his crew reacted to Scott McLaughlin’s crash.

Unfortunately for McLaughlin, his bid to win the Indy 500 ended before the race even started. The Team Penske driver crashed during the warmup laps at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Immediately after this happened, he was spotted on the infield grass with his head in his hands.

"I really have no idea what happened," McLaughlin said. "Just really upset for my team. I'm really sorry to my sponsors, my fans, my family. I don't know what happened. I can't believe we're out of the race. I had so much hope today. It's the worst moment of my life.

"I know it's probably dramatic, but it's just like - I put so much into the race. Everyone does. And I didn't even get to see the green flag."

As McLaughlin held back tears, Larson's crew mocked him. Someone on the NASCAR driver's radio was caught saying, "Somebody just crashed, [expletive] idiot."

Speaking to the media Thursday afternoon, McLaughlin revealed that Larson apologized for what was said on the radio in Indianapolis.

"He texted me. We're all good. I got a tremendous amount of respect for Kyle. I just love poking [expletive] at everyone. My tweet was just making fun of that whole conversation. I wasn't going to let him off the hook," McLaughlin said. "To his credit, Kyle texted me and apologized. I know he didn't mean it. He's a really respectful racer. Kudos to him for even reaching out."

McLaughlin said Larson didn't owe him an apology. Most racing fans, however, disagree with him. They believe Larson had no other choice.

Will an apology change the way fans view Larson? Probably not, but things would've been considerable worse if he stayed quiet.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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