Tony Kanaan Completes Indy 500 Veteran Test at Age 50

For the second year in a row, Kyle Larson wants to pull off “The Double.” That means racing in both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on May 25.

If the weather messes with his schedule, Tony Kanaan is ready to step in for the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champ. Kanaan retired from racing at the Speedway two years ago and now leads Arrow McLaren’s IndyCar operation.

He just wrapped up a veteran refresher test to stay sharp in case he’s needed. Even though Kanaan keeps saying he doesn’t want to race the Indy 500 again, the whole situation has stirred up a lot of emotion—and plenty of attention.

Preparation for a Potential Return

To get ready in case Larson needs a sub, Kanaan did a veteran refresher test on Day 3 of Indy 500 practice. He drove Larson’s #17 car for 15 laps at 210-215 mph, then another 15 laps over 215 mph.

Kanaan has a deep connection to the Speedway but made it clear he’s not itching for a 23rd Indy 500. The emotional pull is there, but he insists he’s done with that chapter.

Emotional Day for Kanaan

At 50, Kanaan reflected on his long IndyCar career. He said he felt grateful just to be back at the Speedway, even if it was only for a refresher.

“It was awesome, as usual,” he said, showing how much the track still means to him. He joked about the sacrifices a return would bring, hinting that his priorities have shifted.

Leading Arrow McLaren

Since retiring, Kanaan took over as team principal for Arrow McLaren in February. He stressed that his main focus now is leading the team to success in IndyCar.

“I have a huge responsibility with the team right now. I’m really enjoying what I’m doing,” he said, making it clear where his head’s at these days.

Experience and Insight

Kanaan’s laps in the refresher gave him a little more feel for the car, but he didn’t act like it was a big deal. The only real tweak? Moving the steering wheel closer for comfort.

The attention on his run was big, but Kanaan said the team already knew what they needed about the car’s performance.

IndyCar Hybrid Experience

Kanaan’s refresher included time in an IndyCar hybrid, which has been a hot topic this year. Plenty of people are debating how the hybrid engines change things at Indy.

Kanaan, though, shrugged it off. “I truly didn’t think it was any different,” he said, suggesting the hybrid tech didn’t really shake up the experience for him.

Potential Role in the Indy 500

Even though Kanaan keeps saying he’s not looking for a comeback, he’s ready if needed. If weather delays force Larson to focus on the Coca-Cola 600, Kanaan will be there to fill in at the Indy 500.

He knows it wouldn’t be easy, but he’s confident he can handle it if the call comes.

Commitment to Team and Sponsors

Kanaan’s focus as team principal includes keeping sponsors and partners happy. He says he’ll stick to those duties until race day.

“I’m the team principal. I won’t think about the race until (Sunday) morning,” he said, showing his dedication to his current job.

Conclusion

Tony Kanaan’s recent refresher test at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has definitely sparked some chatter about whether he might actually get back behind the wheel. He’s still focused on his job as team principal for Arrow McLaren, but the idea of him stepping in for Kyle Larson? That’s got people talking about this year’s Indy 500 in a whole new way.

If you’re curious about how Kanaan’s prepping or want more of his thoughts, check out the full article on Motorsport.com.