IndyCar Monthly: Catching up, court cases and confirmations
- Dan Jones
- 4 hours ago
- 35 min read
It's been a while hasn't it? Due to a combination of travels, illness and Christmas, there has been a bit of a pause on IndyCar Weekly, but that means we have plenty of news to catch up on from the last six weeks in both the IndyCar and Indy NXT paddocks since our last edition on December 6th. We've had more driver announcements in both IndyCar and Indy NXT, the conclusion of an intruiging court case, changes in series' organisation and one final lookahead to the 24 Hours of Daytona, with IndyCar Weekly (as it should be!) providing your round-up of the news in both IndyCar and Indy NXT.
Carpenter confirmed for 23rd Indy 500
Since the last IndyCar Weekly, we've only had one further driver confirmation in IndyCar and to the surprise of few, Ed Carpenter has been confirmed for his 23rd attempt at the 'Greatest Spectacle in Racing'. Carpenter, who grew up in Indianapolis, will return to the team he owns in his familiar No.33 entry as a third car for the team alongside Alexander Rossi and Christian Rasmussen as he aims to win the race for the first time.
Carpenter's Indy announcement comes alongisde a re-shuffle in Ed Carpenter Racing's (ECR) leadership and technical teams, 12 months after they received significant investment from Heartland Food Group's CEO Ted Gelov. ECR have confirmed that Gelov will continue in his role as Chairman, with Carpenter continuing as the CEO and Tim Broyles continuing to serve as Team President.
Derek Davidson has been appointed as Team Manager after making the move from Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLL) in the off-season with long-time engineer Matt Barnes being promoted to VP of Competition. Barnes' spot on the No.20 stand will be passed to Quentin Montigaud with Pete Craik continuing on Christian Rasmussen's stand. Robert Gue has joined the team as a Senior Development Engineer after time at Arrow McLaren and PREMA Racing, whilst Chase Campbell has been appointed as a strength and conditioning coach for the team in addition to his duties as the team's pitstop manager.
It's been a busy off-season for the team, who also announced their expansion to Indy NXT as they power the two entries which will be fielded by Cape Motorsports. The team will emblazon the colours that ECR ran in 2025, with the same paint schemes confirmed to continue in 2026.
Carpenter becomes the 30th confirmed entry at May's 110th Running of the Race, adding to the other confirmed one-off entries of Ryan Hunter-Reay at Arrow McLaren and Jack Harvey at Dreyer & Reinbold Racing. Conor Daly, Takuma Sato and Hélio Castroneves are also expected to in the fray for one-off rides before May arrives.
Carpenter will bid to become add to his three pole positions in 2013, 2014 and 2018 and aim to go one better than he did in 2018 when he finished runner-up to Will Power. The Indianapolis 500 takes place on May 24th.
IndyCar introduces independent officiating for 2026
After controversy about IndyCar's officiating procedures, Penske Entertainment have announced an independent officiating system which will feature in both IndyCar and Indy NXT for 2026 and beyond. A new organisation, IndyCar Officiating Inc., will be governed by a three-person board (IOB), two of which were chosen by IndyCar team owners, with the other being provided by the FIA.
“We are excited to launch this new structure of IndyCar officiating and know the officiating board will approach this charge with diligence and a sense of shared responsibility,” said Penske Entertainment President Mark Miles. “They will work independently to hire the right person to carry this mission forward and provide successful implementation.”
Ray Evernham and Raj Nair were the two IOB members selected by the chartered IndyCar team owners. Evernham comes from a successful background in the NASCAR Cup Series, most recently taking up roles as a TV analyst, producer and consultant. Nair served as North American President for Ford Motor Company and previously served as the Chief Technical Officer and Executive Vice-President for Ford's global product development, which included Ford's motorsport programs including in the NASCAR Cup Series and World Endurance Championship.
“We have remained committed to independent officiating for 2026 and we are pleased to announce this next step,” said IndyCar President Doug Boles. “The IndyCar team owners and the FIA have selected a world-class board with high character, incredible knowledge and an intense passion for motorsports and IndyCar racing.”
The FIA has appointed Ronan Morgan as the third member of the board, who brings over 50 years of motorsport experience to the group. Morgan was Sporting Manager for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix between 2009 and 2021 and is President of the FIA Drivers' Commission. The FIA have confirmed that they will have no further involvement in the organisation of IndyCar.
“IndyCar is an American icon and I am proud of the relationship we are building together," said FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. "The FIA’s independent expertise in delivering consistent officiating oversight across our World Championships, combined with IndyCar's innovation and competitive spirit, will support the continued growth of the series. I look forward to the work ahead of us.”
The independent board has been created in wake of Team Penske's second cheating scandal in 15 months, when the team were found to have illegal filler in their attenuator during qualifying for the Indianapolis 500. With a Penske-owned series and officiating board, controversy reigned supreme over the officiating of the series, with such fears now quashed with the implementation of the new board.
“This was a thorough process, and I am confident in the independent officiating board that has been elected by the team ownership in our sport," said Chip Ganassi. "I look forward to their guidance as they take the next step of hiring a managing director.”
The Managing Director of Officiating will be confirmed at a later date and will be selected by the IOB. Boles has since confirmed that the series has purchased a new technical inspection trailer, which will be independently run by the IOB.
“I am pleased with the direction IndyCar is taking with independent officiating," said TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss. "The team owners have selected two excellent board members and the addition of a FIA appointee will add another layer of experience and expertise.”
Power and Newgarden complete Phoenix tyre test
Cars were on track just a week into the new year as Will Power and Josef Newgarden were present at Phoenix Raceway as they continued tyre development ahead of IndyCar's return to the venue in March.
The test gave a chance to see Power in Andretti colours for the first time, after 17 years with Team Penske. The test came within the first week of Power's arrival at Andretti, after contract clauses prevented the Australian to switch to his new employers until after the new year.
It was the second test at Phoenix this off-season, after Alexander Rossi and Scott Dixon completed a separate tyre test in November.
“It’s funny, you feel very out of place,” Power reflected after his first on-track day with Andretti. “But once you get in the car and get rolling it’s just like, ‘Oh, it’s an Indy car.’ You go through the same processes. I’m just trying to understand how everything works in this team – I’d been with Penske 17 years – it was just like second-nature. You didn’t think about it, but now you have to get the steering wheel in the right position and the pedals, padding and just basic things like that.”
A move of team also provides a change of engineer for Power. Andy Listes has been confirmed as the 2018 Indianapolis 500 winners' race engineer for 2026 who replaces Nathan O'Rourke who moves to a shop-based role. Listes had championship success in 2025, as he was on Dennis Hauger's stand on the Norwegian's run to the Indy NXT championship. On the sister No.28 stand, Rob Barhost has replaced Dave Seyffert engineering Marcus Ericsson.
"Goals for today was really all about Firestone, trying to confirm some of the learnings [from the November test] and trying to add the last few details before coming back in February," Newgarden said. "Definitely got through a lot of running to tick the boxes for Firestone, make sure they understand what they want to bring here and happy with that."
Phoenix is a track with plenty of success for Newgarden, who has finished in the top 10 in each of his three visits to the track and comes into 2026 as the defending race winner in the Arizona desert.
"Last time here was 2018, which was a great time as we ended up winning the race. It was fun to look at those memories, you don't really think about it until you have to start studying again and then you look and watch the race back and it brought a bunch of good memories and I hope we're able to make this race different to what it raced in the past. We know for sure nowadays in IndyCar that getting a second lane in is what brings the best show."
Prior to competitive action returning on-track in the Arizona desert, IndyCar will conduct an open test between February 17th and 18th, with the test open to all teams. The test will be dedicated to the Unser family, who held a notorious reputation at the venue.
“The name Unser is synonymous with Phoenix Raceway,” Boles said. “We’re honored to salute this family’s incredible accomplishments at their home track for this important Open Test, which sets the stage for IndyCar return to Phoenix in March. As a longtime fan of the sport, I also really appreciate that the logo for this special test features some familiar colors from cars driven by Al and Bobby, which I’m sure will bring back many great memories for our loyal fans.”
Cars will be on track for four hours on the 17th between 14:00 and 18:00 ET, with testing on the 18th taking place between 11:00 and 14:00 ET as well as an afternoon session between 15:30 and 18:30. The Wednesday session will be open to the public.
“I’ll speak for our family and say how pleased we are to be honored in this way by IndyCar,” Al Unser Jr. said. “Dad simply loved racing at Phoenix, and no one took it to the edge in qualifying there quite like Uncle Bobby. It was exciting to see the track added to the schedule this year, and the Open Test will be crucial for drivers and teams as they get ready for the race in March. I can’t wait to see IndyCar back at Phoenix.”
Phoenix will host the second race of the season on March 7th in a double-header weekend with the NASCAR Cup and O'Reilly Series.
McLaren claim $12 million in damages over Palou lawsuit
McLaren's lawsuit over Álex Palou's breach of contract has come to a provisional end, with the four-time IndyCar champion now owing $12 million to the Woking-based outfit after a ruling from London's High Court.
Palou had signed a contract in 2022 with McLaren but due to a contractual dispute, he remained with Chip Ganassi Racing in 2023 after the team exercised his one-year option. On his way to winning a second series championship, Palou broke a second McLaren contract for 2024 to stay with Ganassi, when he realised his Formula One opportunities were dwindling, which led to a five-week lawsuit at the end of 2025.
McLaren had been looking for $30 million in damages due to the lost revenue from sponsorship, driver salaries and performance bonuses, but the court ruled that any payments related to F1 were invalid, with all $12 million linked directly to the losses associated with Palou not directly joining their IndyCar operations.
“The court has dismissed in their entirety McLaren's Formula One claims against me which once stood at almost $15m,” Palou said. “I’d like to thank Otmar Szafnauer for his expert assistance. The court's decision shows the claims against me were completely overblown. It's disappointing that so much time and cost was spent fighting these claims, some of which the Court found had no value, simply because I chose not to drive for McLaren after I learned they wouldn't be able to give me an F1 drive.
“I'm disappointed that any damages have been awarded to McLaren. They have not suffered any loss because of what they have gained from the driver who replaced me. I am considering my options with my advisors and have no further comments to make at this stage. I look forward to the upcoming season with Chip Ganassi Racing.”
“This is an entirely appropriate result for McLaren Racing,” said McLaren CEO Zak Brown. “As the ruling shows, we clearly demonstrated that we fulfilled every single contractual obligation towards Álex and fully honored what had been agreed. We thank the court for recognizing the very significant commercial impact and disruption our business suffered as a result of Álex’s breach of contract with the team.”
Palou's team has the right to appeal the decision, whilst McLaren will seek compensation for the legal costs associated with the case, which will be directed toward Palou. Legal costs of the case for both sides are believed to exceed the $12 million Palou now owes.
“McLaren Racing has been awarded damages of well over $12 million to compensate the business for the commercial loss and disruption suffered following IndyCar driver Álex Palou’s breach of contract with the team,” McLaren wrote. In addition to the damages awarded, McLaren Racing will be seeking interest and reimbursement of its legal expenses at a further hearing. As the judgment records, Álex Palou had the backing of Chip Ganassi Racing in attempting to deny McLaren Racing’s claims.”
Palou had completed one formal F1 outing with the team, when he completed Free Practice 1 at the 2022 United States Grand Prix. Palou impressed in the runout, which led to provisional discussions with two further Formula One teams, although nothing came to avail.
The Spaniard exclusively confirmed to DIVEBOMB earlier this year that he has no interest in moving to F1 in the future.
“Álex has our full support, now and always," said Chip Ganassi. "We know the character of our driver and the strength of our team, and nothing changes that. While we respect the legal process, our focus is exactly where it should be: on racing, on winning, and on doing what this organization has always done best, competing at the highest level. We’re locked in on chasing another IndyCar championship and defending our 2025 Indianapolis 500 victory. That’s where our energy is, and that’s where Álex’s focus is, on the track, doing what he does best: winning.”
2026 race broadcast times confirmed
FOX Sports and IndyCar have confirmed the broadcast times for 16 of the 17 races for 2026, with all races once again featuring on network television, with a further two network broadcasts for Indianapolis 500 qualifying.
“Once again FOX Sports is providing an unparalleled platform to showcase the most competitive and dynamic racing series on the planet,” Miles said. “On the heels of significant milestones and momentum last year, this new season will provide meaningful opportunities to reach new audiences and build upon the best growth trajectory in all of sports.”
The broadcast schedules align with FOX Sports' coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held across the United States, Canada and Mexico in a bid to attract football (yes, that's the name of it on IndyCar Weekly!) fans to the series. After Mexico and South Africa kick off the tournament on the 21st June, FOX will lead directly into IndyCar's race at Road America at 14:00 ET.
The Round of 16 match on July 5th will follow IndyCar's trip to Mid-Ohio which will start at 12:30 ET, with the final on July 19th immediately leading into the Music City Grand Prix at Nashville Superspeedway. Nashville's start time remains unconfirmed, with IndyCar stating the time will be confirmed at a later date.
“I’m a big sports fan, so having the 2026 IndyCar schedule share the stage with FOX’s coverage of the World Cup next summer is going to be exciting," said Kyle Kirkwood. "2025 was a breakout year for me, and it was especially rewarding to see it all play out on FOX in their first IndyCar season. We’re looking forward to another strong season for the No. 27 Andretti Global , and I’m eager to see what FOX has in store for the upcoming season.”
IndyCar's first season with FOX saw a 27% increase in overall viewership, as well as an increase in younger viewers and female audiences, which the series state was the fastest growth curve of any major sport.
“2025 was an incredible year not only for me but also for IndyCar on FOX, and I know we are both prepared to build on our accomplishments," said Álex Palou. "Needless to say, I’m excited to get 2026 started as we go for a fourth straight IndyCar championship with the No. 10 car and cannot wait for the opener at St. Pete.”
The full schedule is as follows:
March 1st - Streets of St. Petersburg - 12:00 ET
March 7th - Phoenix Raceway - 15:00 ET
March 15th - Streets of Arlington - 12:30 ET
March 29th - Barber Motorsports Park - 13:00 ET
April 19th - Streets of Long Beach - 17:30 ET
May 9th - Indianapolis Road Course - 16:30 ET
May 24th - Indianapolis 500 - 10:00 ET
May 31st - Streets of Detroit - 12:30 ET
June 7th - Gateway Motorsports Park - 21:00 ET
June 21st - Road America - 14:00 ET
July 5th - Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course - 12:30 ET
July 19th - Nashville Superspeedway - TBC
August 9th - Portland International Raceway - 16:00 ET
August 16th - Streets of Markham - 12:00 ET
August 29th - Milwaukee Mile - 14:30 ET August 30th - Milwaukee Mile - 13:00 ET
September 6th - Laguna Seca - 14:30 ET
"There is so much to look forward to on the 2026 schedule, including our first race at Arlington," said Pato O'Ward. "As we have already seen in this new partnership, it is one of the most exciting, new additions to our calendar in the recent years, and FOX Sports will provide the perfect showcase for our fans watching on TV. The new season can’t get here soon enough."
The new calendar sees new events at Phoenix, Arlington and Markham in addition to a second race at Milwaukee. The 2025 double-header at Iowa, as well as single-headers at Toronto and Thermal have been dropped from the calendar. Suggestions of another race on the Streets of Washington have picked up in recent days, only ignited by a social media post by Donald Trump.
Leaders' Circle payout increased for 2026 and beyond
Penske Entertainment has increased the monetary figure provided as part of the Leaders' Circle for 2026 and beyond, as teams prepare for increased costs with a new chassis planned in 2028.
The Leaders' Circle is a set amount of prize money given to the top 22 chartered entries in the championship, in return for the entrant completing every race. The series had previously provided $1.145 million for each entry, totalling $31.9 million, but have increased that threshold for the next three seasons with an additional $11 million, or an extra $500,000 to each entry.
“Roger Penske made a pretty big commitment to the charter teams and the Leaders Circle by increasing the Leaders Circle by $11 million in ’26, ’27, and 28 from where it was in ’25," said Boles. "That was just Roger doing the right thing to help IndyCar teams, his partner teams, be more successful and have a little more cash to move forward.”
It marks the biggest increase in payouts for the scheme since its introduction in 2002, a reaction to the general increase in costs for motorsport teams. As a non-chartered entry, only PREMA will not be eligible to compete to claim the additional funding provided through the programme.
The funding is generally seen as particularly important for the smaller outfits in the series, many of whom rely on pay drivers to keep their entries running. The No.77 Juncos entry of Sting Ray Robb, the No.30 entry of Devlin DeFrancesco and the No.51 entry of Jacob Abel missed out on the funding last season.
It is believed the cost of a full-time entry can reach up to $10 million, with teams expected to budget around $1 million for the upcoming Dallara IR28.
O'Ward to return to McLaren F1 reserve role
Pato O'Ward has been confirmed to continue as McLaren's F1 reserve driver in 2026 as the team aim to defend the World Constructors' Championship and Lando Norris' World Drivers' Championship. O'Ward has held reserve driver responsibilities since 2024, with the Mexican becoming a familiar face in Free Practice sessions throughout the season which included run outs at his home race in Mexico City, as well as Abu Dhabi in 2025.
After the IndyCar season ends in early September, O'Ward will travel with the team to the flyaway races in Asia and the Americas and will expected to add to the five practice sessions he has done in the last four years with the team, with the team required to field a rookie four times throughout the year. O'Ward will share duties with Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli, who will also take up the responsibility of test and development driver.
“I am excited to continue in my role as Reserve Driver for the McLaren F1 Team, alongside my primary duties in IndyCar with Arrow McLaren. I’ve learned an incredible amount testing and driving F1 cars over the past few years, so I am looking forward to this continued growth and development.”
2026 marks a new era for F1, with major regulation changes coming into effect including the introduction of active aerodynamics and new power unit regulations, providing teams more testing and development time throughout the year.
FIA updates IndyCar Super License points allocation
IndyCar drivers will now earn more FIA Super License points for strong championship finishes after the FIA adjusted the allocation for the series to allow a clearer pathway for IndyCar drivers to reach F1.
40 points in a three-year period is the required threshold for drivers to obtain the license which provides them the opportunity to race in F1, but a previously low IndyCar allocation prevented drivers from making the switch, even if they had a particularly reputable stature in the United States.
The most notable example was Colton Herta, who failed in bids to join Alfa Romeo in 2022 and AlphaTauri in 2023 due to his lack of Super License points, despite having claimed seven IndyCar victories. Herta's ambitions of reaching F1 will continue in 2026, as he embarks on a Formula 2 campaign alongside his duties as test driver for the Cadillac F1 Team.
Pato O'Ward suffered a similar fate, where his lack of license points prevented the Mexican from becoming McLaren's reserve driver sooner than he was appointed the role.
The all-important 40 point payout will continue to only be provided for the series champion, as well as the 30 points provided for the runner-up. However, third place has had its points increased from 20 to 25, whilst the fourth place finisher in the championship will now receive 20 points instead of the previous 10.
Fifth place will earn 15 points instead of eight, with sixth place now having its allocation boosted from six to 10. Seventh will claim eight points instead of four, eighth earning six instead of three and ninth earning 3 instead of two. The one point provided for 10th place in the championship will remain the same under the new allocation.
FOX launch new adverts in build-up to 2026
FOX Sports have launched the first of four IndyCar adverts in the build-up to the season opener on the Streets of St. Petersburg, which will be aired during NFL playoff games throughout the coming weeks. One of FOX's first additions to the series in 2025 was adverts for Josef Newgarden, Álex Palou and Pato O'Ward which were an instant hit due to their entertainment value and promotion of characters in the series, in the goal of making drivers like superstars.
The same trio will have new adverts made in 2026, with Will Power becoming the fourth driver to have a featured advert ahead of his move to Andretti. As was the case in 2025, Newgarden's ad was the first to be featured, with his first seen by the public during the third quarter of the 49ers-Seahawks game on January 17th.
The ad starts with a mention to Newgarden's neighbours, who perceive him to have a perfect life, perfect hair and perfect abs before referring to his killer instinct on the race track. Newgarden rips out meat from a packet in the shape of the heart as the commentary says "Josef once ripped a heart out on live TV" as they show photos of the dejected O'Ward at the conclusion of the 2024 Indianapolis 500, before throwing the meat into the grill. As an additional easter egg, the expiry date on the meat packet dates to the 2024 Indianapolis 500.
"Doing this is way outside my comfort zone," Newgarden said whilst reflecting on the ad, which was filmed in Los Angeles in December. 2026 will see Newgarden will aim to recover from his disastrous 2025 season where he only claimed one victory on his way to 12th in the championship.
It has not been confirmed which driver will feature in the next advert.
PREMA changes ownership with future uncertain
After 43 years at the helm of one of the most successful junior teams in motorsport, the Rosin family have departed PREMA, with Angelo Rosin, his son René and René's wife Angelina vacating their management responsibilities.
It is unknown as to why PREMA's management team have departed and there has been no further confirmation on who will take up the responsibilities vacated by the Rosin's. The outfit had a major organisational change in 2021, when Deborah Mayer and Claudio Schiavoni's DC Racing Solutions firm took significant stake of the operations.
It has been just 12 months since Rosin alongside IndyCar Team Principal Piers Phillips helped PREMA make the switch to IndyCar, which saw Robert Shwartzman take the unlikeliest of pole positions at the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500. The team had also built a state-of-the-art factory in Fishers, Indiana to support their programme in the USA.
Even prior to Rosin's departure, the team's future in the series has been uncertain, with the team believed to require significant funding to return, after the funding from Mayer and Schiavoni dried up. Talks have taken place to find a new investor, or even team owner, but nothing has come to fruit yet.
There has been no confirmation whether the Italian outfit will return to the series in 2026 and with time running out for PREMA to commit to engine contracts and tyres, it remains to be seen whether they will make the Open Test at Sebring, let alone the opening race on the Streets of St. Petersburg. Next week's IndyCar content days should give us a good insight into whether a return is likely.
Sunoco to make IndyCar return with Ganassi
For the first time since 1973, Sunoco will feature for a full season on an Indy car, after the announcement that they will return to the series with Chip Ganassi Racing, with Kyffin Simpson's No.8 entry having a revised colour scheme for 2026.
The fuel distributors' history in the sport dates back to 1968 when Mark Donohue drove the No.12 Sunoco car at Riverside, four years before the marque won the Indianapolis 500 with Donohue. Ganassi state that the partnership will showcase Sunoco 94 Octane, the highest octane fuel on the market.
“Starting my third year in IndyCar with Sunoco joining the No. 8 Honda is an incredible boost," Simpson said. "We’ve made big strides on the track, and this partnership will only help us get better, I’m confident we can take another step forward and have even more success in 2026 and beyond.”
Simpson will aim to build on an impressive 2025 in Sunoco colours, where the Cayman Islander achieved his maiden podium in Toronto, as well as further top five finishes in Detroit and Nashville on his way to 17th in the championship.
“Sunoco has long been synonymous with performance and innovation, values that mirror the DNA of our team," said Chip Ganassi, owner of Chip Ganassi Racing. "To join forces with such an iconic brand and one with a storied legacy in IndyCar is truly special. This partnership reflects our shared drive to keep pushing boundaries, and we look forward to what we’ll accomplish together on and off the track.”
Indy NXT field heads toward completion
Although there hasn't been much movement in IndyCar since our last update, there's been announcements aplenty in Indy NXT as teams begin to finalise their line-ups ahead of the season opener on the Streets of St. Petersburg on March 1st.
Kucharczyk to make Road to Indy switch with HMD
Tymek Kucharczyk will become the latest name to move over to Indy NXT from the European racing ladder after confirmation that he will compete in the full 2026 season with HMD Motorsports.
Kucharczyk won the Euroformula Open Championship in 2025, taking home six race victories and five pole positions on his way to the title. The 19-year-old got his first taste of Indy NXT machinery at the end of 2025, when he tested with HMD at the Chris Griffis Memorial Test on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course in preparation for his maiden season in America.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to join HMD Motorsports,” Kucharczyk said. “Making the move to the American racing scene feels like the right next step, and the test I did with the team was really positive. I feel confident in what we can achieve together. I am committed to giving everything I have this year.”
HMD have had immense success in Indy NXT, with the team fielding championship-winning cars for Linus Lundqvist and Christian Rasmussen in 2022 and 2023 respectably. Other IndyCar alumni include Nolan Siegel, Toby Sowery, Kyffin Simpson, David Malukas, Benjamin Pedersen and Caio Collet.
“Tymek has shown tremendous potential throughout his career,” HMD Motorsports Team President Mike Maurini said. “We are excited to help guide his development in the United States and see what we can accomplish together. The 2026 season will undoubtedly feature a strong lineup throughout the series, and we believe Tymek will be a valuable addition to it as he fights for race wins, podium results, Rookie of the Year honors and, ultimately, the Indy NXT championship.”
Kucharczyk will compete against Max Garcia, Nicholas Monteiro, Alessandro de Tullio, Nikita Johnson, Carson Etter, Nicholas Stati, as well as HMD teammates Jack Beeton and Enzo Fittipaldi for the rookie honours in 2026.
De Alba completes 2026 HMD line-up
Following Kucharczyk's confirmation, HMD were swift to complete their line-up with the announcement that Salvador de Alba will move to the team for 2026 as the Mexican embarks on a third Indy NXT season.
The 26-year-old, who is a two-time NASCAR Mexico Champion, spent 2024 at Andretti Cape Motorsports before being promoted to the Andretti factory team for 2025. De Alba claimed his first Indy NXT victory at the penultimate round in Milwaukee and hugely impressed on ovals throughout the season.
“The past two seasons in Indy NXT have been a tremendous learning experience, and I’m excited to begin a new chapter with HMD Motorsports,” de Alba said. “I gained strong momentum toward the end of last season, and I’m eager to carry that into 2026. The team has already shown incredible dedication to my success, and I’m grateful for all the support that’s helped me get here. Together, we’ll keep pushing towards IndyCar.”
De Alba has claimed five podiums in his two seasons, which unsurprisingly given his background, all came on ovals. 2025 marked a year of consistency for the 26-year-old, who finished outside the top 10 on just two occasions.
“Salvador is an outstanding addition to our line-up and exactly what we were looking for heading into 2026,” HMD Motorsports Team President Mike Maurini said. “He brings valuable experience, a strong work ethic and a clear determination to succeed. We’re excited to support his continued development and help him reach the next level.”
Kucharczyk and de Alba will complete a formidable HMD line-up alongside Fittipaldi and Beeton, with de Alba being the only one with any previous Indy NXT experience. This week's test at Sebring saw de Alba finish ninth on the second day of running.
Victor Martins lined up alongside Kucharczyk, Beeton and Fittipaldi with HMD at the Chris Griffis Memorial Test and tested for Juncos at Barber the following week, however has since been confirmed for a full-time drive for Alpine in the World Endurance Championship alongside his reserve duties for the Williams Formula One team.
Ganassi confirms drivers for four-car expansion
Unlike other teams, there was no waiting around at Chip Ganassi Racing, who announced all four of their drivers for 2026 simultaneously, as they prepare to expand from two cars to four for the forthcoming season.
Niels Koolen will make a return to the team that he spent the entirety of 2025 with, as he continues in the No.10 entry for 2026. After a disastrous Formula 2 campaign at the end of 2024, Koolen surprised many in 2025 as he picked up seven top 10 finishes, including a top five at Iowa Speedway and impressed with his consistency on ovals throughout the season. Koolen also had an opportunity to test an Indy car for the team in the off-season.
“I really enjoyed last year with the Chip Ganassi Racing team," Koolen said. "The people, the preparation, and the way we kept improving throughout the season gave me a lot of confidence. I’m looking forward to returning for another year in Indy NXT, and I’m ready to push even harder with this group as we look to fight our way forward on the grid and build on our top-5s and compete for wins in 2026."
Bryce Aron will continue alongside Koolen in 2026 after competing in 13 of the 14 races in 2025 with Ganassi, only missing the opening round on the Streets of St. Petersburg. Aron will embark on a third full season of Indy NXT, as he aims to build on his 11th place finish in the championship in 2025. Aron claimed six top 10 finishes and a single top five finish at Milwaukee, but was unable to build on the two podiums he achieved in 2024 with Andretti Global. The American will return to the No.9 entry.
“I am extremely excited to be returning to Chip Ganassi Racing again in 2026 for the Indy NXT season," said Aron. "We finished the second half of last season really strong, and I was very proud of all of the development we made across the entire year, especially with me jumping in at the second round. I feel like we developed the car a ton, and I am excited to continue the momentum we had coming out of last year and with the off-season testing we’ve had so far. I’m very excited to get going again in 2026 and make a championship charge.”
James Roe is set for his fifth Indy NXT season in 2026, after being confirmed in the No.8 entry with the team. In his three seasons with Andretti, Roe claimed three podiums and a singular pole position. However, 2025 marked a disappointing season for Roe as he stumbled to 12th in the championship and didn't look as competitive as he had done in previous seasons. Like Koolen, Roe also tested an IndyCar in the off-season, the Irishman running in a Juncos Hollinger Racing car.
"I’m incredibly excited to join Chip Ganassi Racing and take this next step in my journey towards IndyCar. Competing with one of the most successful teams in the sport as they grow their Indy NXT program is a unique chance to combine my experience in the series with their championship-level culture. The IndyCar paddock is where I want to be and I’m more determined than ever. The goal is to create something special together this season.”
Ganassi's line-up will be completed by rookie Carson Etter, who has been confirmed in the No.11 entry. Etter tested for the team at the conclusion of 2025 in the Chris Griffis Memorial Test for his first taste of Indy NXT machinery. Etter finished 17th in the USF Pro 2000 Championship in 2025, the lowest of all full-time drivers, with a singular top 10 finish at the season finale at Portland.
“It feels like ‘thank you’ isn’t enough, but I’d like to give a huge thank you to Chip Ganassi Racing for this opportunity to compete in Indy NXT. I’ve dreamed of racing with this team since I was a kid and I don’t think I’ve stopped smiling since they called and said I’m a part of the Ganassi family. This team has a culture that will push you past what you thought you were capable of, even in practice, and turn it into results on race day. I’m fired up to help carry that momentum forward. Chip Ganassi Racing sets the bar high. There are no excuses, only results, and that’s exactly the environment I want to be in. We’re coming in hungry, putting in the work, and making sure every weekend means something. I can’t wait to get after it in 2026.”
Sebring's test saw Koolen finish sixth on the opening day, the only appearance of any Ganassi driver in the top 10 in the timing sheets across both days of testing.
“Chip Ganassi Racing is glad to have Carson and James join the team with Bryce and Niels as we expand our Indy NXT efforts in 2026," said team principal Taylor Kiel. "We are putting in a lot of hard work as we try to fight for wins and podiums in our second year back on the NXT grid, and I’m looking forward to seeing what we accomplish.”
Escotto returns full-time with switch to Juncos Hollinger
Juncos Hollinger have confirmed Ricardo Escotto as the first of their two drivers as they mark their return to the series after a year absent. Escotto, who completed nine races for Andretti Cape Motorsports in 2025, previously competed in five races in 2024 with Juncos and intends to complete a first full Indy NXT season in 2026.
“I’m super excited to be back with Juncos Hollinger Racing for the 2026 Indy NXT season,” Escotto said. “I have a great relationship with everyone in the team and full trust that they will make this season one to remember. Indy NXT offers the most competitive and direct pathway to the top level, and I’m proud to represent both JHR and Mexico on this stage. I feel more prepared and motivated than ever, and ready to make the most of this opportunity as I continue building toward my ultimate goal of racing full time in IndyCar."
Escotto parted ways with Andretti Cape midway through 2025, shortly after the Mexican controversially clashed with teammate Sebastian Murray at Mid-Ohio. Escotto claimed two top 10 finishes in 2025, with a best finish of ninth at Barber Motorsports Park.
“Ricardo is a talented and highly motivated young driver who has demonstrated consistent growth and resilience at every step of his career," said Dave O’Neill, Team Principal of Racing. "He brings a strong work ethic and a clear determination to reach IndyCar. Indy NXT is about development and performance, and we believe Ricardo has the mindset and capability to make the most of this opportunity with our team.”
Escotto's teammate is yet to be confirmed, but Jack William Miller tested for the team at Sebring this week and would be considered a frontrunner for the entry.
Indy NXT completes full field test at Sebring
The Indy NXT field has completed two days of testing at Sebring International Raceway in the first of two major tests in the build up to the season opener on the Streets of St. Petersburg on March 1st.
Andretti's Max Taylor led the timing charts on the opening day in an Andretti-heavy leaderboard with Seb Murray third, Lochie Hughes fourth and Josh Pierson seventh. Max Garcia led the way for Abel in second with teammate Jordan Missig in 10th. HMD-affiliated cars driven by Juan Manuel Correa and Nikita Johnson finished in fifth and eighth respectively, with Chip Ganassi Racing's Niels Koolen sixth in the charts and HMD's Enzo Fittipaldi in ninth.
Fittipaldi led the way on day two with a 0:55.77 with teammates Beeton and de Alba in seventh and ninth respectively. Taylor's strong test continued as he finished second, adding to him topping the times in the post-season Barber test, with Murray the only other Andretti driver featuring in the top 10. Alessandro de Tullio was third for AJ Foyt Racing, with Max Garcia the top Abel Motorsports car once again in fourth, with teammate Myles Rowe in sixth. Correa finished fifth once again.
Alongside Juncos' unconfirmed second entry, the only other entry to be confirmed for 2026 is the second Cape Motorsports Powered by ECR car in addition to Nikita Johnson. Matteo Nannini tested the car at Sebring, who could now be in the frame for a surprise return to the series. Nannini last competed in the series in 2023 where he claimed a surprise win on the Indianapolis Road Course with Juncos Hollinger.
The series will host its first ever test at the Miami International Autodrome between February 22nd and 23rd, the final major test before the season opener on the Streets of St. Petersburg.
Familiar faces prepare for Daytona 24 Hours
The Daytona 24 Hours has been a very common theme throughout IndyCar Weekly, and after several months of anticipation, the biggest race of the IMSA calendar is finally upon us! We've gone over signing-by-signing in the quieter weeks of IndyCar Weekly, but here's a recap class-by-class of the IndyCar interest in the event.
GTP
IndyCar interest in the race is spearheaded by Chip Ganassi Racing pair Álex Palou and Scott Dixon, who will drive for partner team Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) in the event in the GTP class, as they look to bid for overall victory for Acura.
Palou will enter the race for a fourth time and will share the No.93 entry with endurance supremos Renger van der Zande and Nick Yelloly, as well as Super Formula's Kakunoshin Ohta, who tested an MSR IndyCar at the conclusion of 2025.
Dixon, who recieved a New Zealand Knighthood in the off-season and has now been given the title Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit or Sir Scott Dixon KNZM, will compete in the race for a 23rd straight year and look to add from his crowns in 2006, 2015 and 2020.
Dixon will drive the No.60 entry, which is certainly ones for fans of #ExIndyCarDriverWatch. Tom Blomqvist, who drove in six IndyCar races for MSR in 2024 will lead the outfit alongside Colin Braun who drove two races for Dale Coyne Racing in the same year. The line-up is completed by ex-Team Penske driver A.J. Allmendinger, who currently races for Kaulig Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series and returns to the race after five years away.
The Ganassi pair make up the only active IndyCar interest in the GTP class, but there's some to look out for if you're following #ExIndyCarDriverWatch. Colton Herta (still feels crazy he's on this watch) will line-up alongside Louis Delétraz and Jordan Taylor in the No.40 Wayne Taylor Racing Cadillac entry. Similarly to the Ganassi duo, Herta will be present at Sebring and Petit Le Mans.
One-time IndyCar driver Kevin Magnussen will share the No.25 Team WRT BMW entry with Philipp Eng, Raffaele Marciello and Marco Wittmann in the first IMSA race that the prototype BMW will compete in without support from RLL.
LMP2
There's always plenty of IndyCar interest in the LMP2 class in Daytona and this year is no different. Christian Rasmussen will headline interest as he drives the popular 'Spike the Dragon' entry for AO Racing in the No.99 alongside P.J. Hyett, Dane Cameron and Jonny Edgar. Rasmussen won the race in the LMP2 class in 2024 and races in the class for the fourth consecutive time at Daytona.
Nolan Siegel is no stranger to LMP2s, having won the 2024 24 Hours of Le Mans, as well as the 6 Hours of Watkins Glen and Petit Le Mans. Siegel has also spent his off-season driving in the class in the Asian Le Mans Series with Inter Europol Competition. After a year absent from the race, Siegel will return with Inter Europol alongside Formula E's Nick Cassidy, Jakub Śmiechowski and Georgios Kolovos in the No.343 car.
“Daytona is one of my favorite races of the year, and I am very excited to be back," said Siegel. "Sitting out for a year made me hungrier than ever to come back to IMSA and fight for a Rolex. This is a race win that I’ve dreamed about for a long time, and going into it with this team and driver line-up is going to give us a good shot at it.”
Kyffin Simpson is also a familiar sight in the LMP2 class, having won the European Le Mans Series in the class in 2023. After a year away from racing the prototype, Simpson will race at Daytona for the fourth time with Tower Motorsports, the team he won the 12 Hours of Sebring with in 2023. He will pair up with four-time Champ Car champion Sébastien Bourdais in #ExIndyCarDriverWatch alongside Sebastián Álvarez and John Farano in the No.8 entry.
In more #ExIndyCarDriverWatch in the class, Toby Sowery will feature in CrowdStrike Racing's by APR's No.4 entry for the third consecutive year. Sowery's fellow Brit, Ben Hanley will line-up alongside one of Sowery's ex-IndyCar teammates in Hunter McElrea in the No.2 United Autosports USA entry, as Hanley aims to add to his 2020 race-winning Rolex.
Jacob Abel looks all but certain to depart IndyCar after his rookie year, after signing an Endurance Cup deal for Era Motorsport for 2026. He'll now be on #ExIndyCarDriverWatch in the No.18 entry alongside Ferdinand Habsburg, Naveen Rao and ex-F1 driver Logan Sargeant.
This years' #ExIndyCarDriverWatch in the LMP2 class is completed by Pietro Fittipaldi who will line-up alongside his brother Enzo - off the back of his successful test at Sebring. It will mark the first time the brothers have raced together as they represent Pratt Miller Motorsports in the No.73 entry.
GTD Pro
Andretti duo Kyle Kirkwood and Will Power headline interest in the highly-competitive GTD Pro class for the race.
For the sixth consecutive season, Kirkwood will compete for Vasser Sullivan,continuing to race in the Lexus RC F GT3. Kirkwood will race in the No.14 entry, and unlike last year, will just compete in the one entry instead of double-dutying like he did last year. Kirkwood will line-up alongside Ben Barnicoat and ex-IndyCar driver Jack Hawksworth. Kirkwood will be back with the team for races later in the year.
“I’m extremely excited to join the Vasser Sullivan team once again for the 2026 season," said Kirkwood. "I’ve had some of the most enjoyable moments over the years with this team and I always look forward to getting in the Lexus RC F GT3 alongside the highly attributed line-up of Jack and Ben. This group has a proven track record, and I know with the hard-work and perseverance we have shown, we will have great success this season.”
Maybe somewhat surprisingly given his experience, Power will enter the race for the first time this weekend. He will compete for the 75 Express squad, the team he made his GT3 debut with in the Indianapolis 8 Hour last year. Like he did on the bricks, he'll line-up alongside Kenny Habul and Australian Supercars champion Chaz Mostert, with Maro Engel the final addition to the roster.
James Hinchcliffe will swap the microphone for the steering wheel as he returns to the No.9 Pfaff Motorsports entry in his third consecutive Daytona with the team. He will line-up alongside Andrea Caldarelli, Mirko Bortolotti and Sandy Mitchell. His IndyCar on FOX booth partner Townsend Bell will not make an appearance at Daytona this year, unlike previous seasons.
#ExIndyCarDriverWatch in this class includes Jüri Vips who will drive for his IndyCar employers in RLL, as they switch to GT3 McLarens' after losing the BMW GTPs. He'll notably be alongside Indy NXT's Nikita Johnson in the No.59 entry, both of whom will make their debut in this years' event.
GTD
Last but not least, there's more IndyCar interest in the GTD class, with Scott McLaughlin, Callum Ilott and Marcus Ericsson flying the IndyCar flag.
McLaughlin was part of a GTD superteam in 2025 for Trackhouse Racing alongside Shane van Gisbergen, Connor Zilisch and Ben Keating, and will once again drive the Corvette Z06 GT3.R in this years' race. McLaughlin lines up alongside Charlie Eastwood, Mason Filippi and Salih Yoluç in the No.36 DXDT Racing entry in McLaughlin's fourth consecutive year at the race. McLaughlin was expected to join the factory Porsche Penske outfit after testing for them last year before plans fell through.
“It’s an honor to join DXDT Racing for Daytona,” said McLaughlin. “The Corvette Z06 GT3.R is an impressive machine, and working alongside Charlie, Salih and Mason gives us a really strong package heading into one of the world’s most demanding races.”
Marcus Ericsson made his GT3 debut in early November with his brother Hampus at the 12 Hours of Sepang and will once again be racing the Lamborghini Huracán GT3 Evo 2 this weekend. He will compete in the No.45 Wayne Taylor Motorsports entry - a team owned by TWG Motorsports, the same organisation that oversees Ericsson's IndyCar employers in Andretti Global. Ericsson will be alongside Graham Doyle, Danny Formal and Trent Hindman.
“I’m super excited to be back racing with Wayne Taylor Racing for the legendary Rolex 24 hours,” said Ericsson. “It will be my third time racing the Daytona 24 but the first time for me in the GTD class. I’m joining a great line-up with Danny, Trent and Graham, whom I know quite well already after being to quite a few races with the team in 2025 whilst supporting my brother, Hampus, in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo championship. I’m very thankful to Wayne and Travis for the opportunity. I can’t wait to go racing!”
“I am very excited that we managed to sign Marcus for the Rolex 24,” added Wayne Taylor. “He drove for us previously and we know he will be a great addition to the GTD program. We are lucky to have him. Danny Formal, Trent Hindman and Graham Doyle did a great job in 2025, and we feel like we have a really good shot at a podium. We have drivers and crew that have experience with the car and with this event, so we are really looking forward to Daytona.”
“I’m delighted to see Marcus join WTR for this opportunity,” said TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss. “Moves like this reflect the potential of the TWG Motorsports portfolio in creating an opportunity for Marcus to race alongside Danny, Trent and Graham.”
Callum Ilott completes active IndyCar interest at the race, but unlike all his other competitors, he has signed for a full 2026 IMSA programme with Wright Motorsports. Ilott's programme does not clash with any IndyCar weekends, apart from shared events at Long Beach and Detroit, as the Briton returns to sportscars after a successful 2024 WEC campaign with JOTA.
“I’m thrilled to be joining Wright Motorsports for the full season in GTD alongside my IndyCar season,” said Ilott. “Having raced with Wright Motorsports once before, I got a taste of how impressive the team is and I’m motivated to continue building on that throughout the year. It’s shaping up to be a great season ahead and I can’t wait to get to work with Adam, Elliott, Tom and the whole Wright crew.”
Ilott will line-up alongside Adam Adelson, Elliott Skeer and Tom Sargeant at Daytona in the No.120 Porsche as the Briton makes his second appearance at the race.
#ExIndyCarDriverWatch is led by Romain Grosjean, but that title may not last for long for Grosjean, with rumours swirling that he could return to Dale Coyne Racing alongside Dennis Hauger. For now, he'll race the No.16 Ford for Myers Riley Motorsports at Daytona. Benjamin Pedersen will be with Vasser Sullivan Racing in the No.12 entry whilst Indy NXT's James Roe will be with Lone Star Racing in the No.80 Mercedes.
We've also seen more IndyCar drivers get in other machinery in the last week, with Santino Ferrucci back at the Chili Bowl - one of the most notorious dirt races in the world. Ferrucci won the first heat race on A.J. Foyt's 91st birthday after winning from pole position in his sixth attempt at the race.
“Man, this is for A.J.,” Ferrucci said. “Happy birthday to my boss. I think he’d whoop my ass if I didn’t win this thing from pole.”
Ferrucci advanced from the J and I mains before he was eliminated finishing 11th in the H2 Main.
IndyCar interest.... in the Winter Olympics?
We've spoken a lot in IndyCar Weekly about IndyCar interest in the Daytona 24 Hours and other endurance races around the world, but one ex-IndyCar driver is finding a very different form of speed in the upcoming weeks.
That driver is Simona de Silvestro, who competed in IndyCar as recently as 2022 and claimed one series podium in Houston in 2013. De Silvestro will be representing Switzerland in the bobsleigh in both the monobob and two-woman bobsleigh in Milano-Cortina. De Silvestro has been training for the bobsleigh since the end of 2022, with her upcoming Olympic appearance marking out the goal she set to achieve.
The bobsleigh programme doesn't start until February 15th, but it is one to look forward to for IndyCar fans and you will of course be updated on IndyCar Weekly.
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