Hendrick Motorsports has officially announced that Justin Allgaier will serve as the practice and qualifying driver for the No. 5 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet during this week’s NASCAR All-Star Race events at North Wilkesboro Speedway. This decision comes as Kyle Larson focuses on preparations for the Indianapolis 500, part of his ambitious “Memorial Day Double” attempt.
Allgaier, the reigning NASCAR Xfinity Series champion and driver of the No. 7 JR Motorsports Chevrolet, will handle the No. 5 car during practice and qualifying sessions. He will also be on standby as the reserve driver for both the All-Star Race and the upcoming Coca-Cola 600. This arrangement mirrors last year’s scenario, where Allgaier stepped in for Larson during the Coca-Cola 600 when weather delays at the Indy 500 prevented Larson from arriving in time.
Hendrick Motorsports has clarified that if Larson is unable to return from Indianapolis in time for the All-Star Race, the team will not compete in the event. Allgaier’s role is limited to practice and qualifying; he will not participate in the race itself.
Larson is committed to participating in the All-Star Race, even if it means forfeiting a chance at the Indianapolis 500 pole position. He has stated that, despite the challenges of balancing both events, his priority remains with the NASCAR Cup Series.
The NASCAR All-Star Race is scheduled for Sunday, May 18, at 8:00 p.m. ET, and will be broadcast live on Fox Sports 1. Fans can look forward to seeing whether Larson can successfully navigate the logistical hurdles to participate in both marquee events.
