Kyle Larson makes driver swap with Justin Allgaier during Coca-Cola 600, somehow avoids losing lap

The red flag has come out at Charlotte Motor Speedway which has allowed Kyle Larson to swap with Justin Allgaier in the No. 5 car. One way or another, NASCAR says the swap was actually made under yellow.

The yellow flag came out with a small amount of rain coming down. Just as that happened, Kyle Larson landed at the track via helicopter. The Hendrick team decided not to make the swap under yellow so they wouldn’t lose track position to other cars not pitting.

So, that meant when the red flag came out, the swap was made. Well, not according to NASCAR. Here is Allgaier getting out of the car as the covers are being put on.

We appreciate it Little Gator! 🫡 pic.twitter.com/gLyP7p8ZmR

— Hendrick Motorsports (@TeamHendrick) May 27, 2024

The conspiracies were already starting when the caution flag came out as Larson was landing in the helicopter. Then crew chief Cliff Daniels wanted to keep Allgaier in the car so they could keep track position.

Now we’re here. Unless something else is said, Larson will not lose his position. Part of me is glad, Allgaier worked hard for that position. Then again, part of me is suspicious of the ruling. Larson has driven from the rear before. With almost 300 miles left in the race, he would have plenty of time to move up through the field.

For Allgaier to leave the car in P13 is fantastic. He did exactly what this team asked of him and hopefully, he can give Larson a car that he can drive to the front. It’s always exciting when Larson gets in the mix, let’s see what he can do tonight.

Before that happens, we have to get out of this red flag, though. That is going to be a problem.

Kyle Larson hoping to race in Coca-Cola 600

As of right now, Kyle Larson has yet to race in the Coca-Cola 600 tonight. Larson is just waiting for the rain to go away, track to dry, and then he can get to work. There are some tough drivers in the front of this one, though.

Christopher Bell is leading under red. Tyler Reddick sits P4 after starting in the rear of the field and serving a pass-through penalty for an unapproved adjustment after inspection. The rain was heavy and that means drying will have to take place for these racers to get back to it and put on a show.

Today has been a long day for those following along for both the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600. We may not see this race end until the early morning hours, IF NASCAR wants to continue with it.

Right now, it feels like NASCAR wants to keep going. This is a crown jewel race. Kyle Larson has put a lot of eyes on this event with his Double attempt. Let’s see it through to the end even if it is 1-2AM.