Exciting Developments and the Return of Laguna Seca for the 2026 IndyCar Season

The IndyCar Series has officially unveiled its schedule for the 2026 season, which features an ambitious lineup of 17 races. This upcoming season is set to be one of the most dynamic and internationally engaging in the history of the series. The partnership with FOX Sports remains robust, guaranteeing that all events will be broadcast on free television throughout the United States—a distinctive feature among major motorsport championships in North America. In Brazil, fans can catch the races, which will be available exclusively through Disney+.

One of the standout achievements celebrated recently is the significant growth in viewership. In 2025, IndyCar experienced a remarkable 27% increase in audience compared to the previous year, averaging 1.36 million viewers per race. This surge in popularity coincided with Alex Palou’s remarkable achievement of clinching his third consecutive championship—a feat not seen in 14 years.

Key Highlights of the 2026 IndyCar Schedule

Among the notable features of the 2026 calendar is the series’ opening with four races scheduled for March. This will include the much-anticipated return to Phoenix Raceway, now featuring an updated “dogleg” layout. Additionally, the series will debut the Arlington street circuit in Texas, created in collaboration with the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers. Another highlight will be the Nashville Superspeedway race, which will coincide with the historic FIFA World Cup 2026 final broadcast on FOX, transforming the 400-mile race into one of the year’s most anticipated events.

Canada remains a part of the schedule but will see a change in venue. The race will move from Toronto to Markham, located in the Greater Toronto Area. The new circuit will feature a layout consisting of 12 turns over 2.19 miles, complete with a double pit lane and sections designed for high-speed racing.

Tradition continues to play a crucial role in the schedule, with established races taking place in Long Beach, Barber, Detroit, Road America, Mid-Ohio, and Portland. The beloved double-header weekend in Milwaukee will also return, marking a pivotal moment in the championship season.

The season finale will take place at the iconic WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, where the championship will be decided, and the Astor Cup will be awarded on September 6, 2026. Recent investments and structural improvements led by the “Friends of Laguna Seca” group promise to deliver a finale worthy of the series’ rich history.

Mark Miles, the CEO of Penske Entertainment, emphasized that this calendar strikes a balance between honoring tradition and embracing innovation. "The growth in viewership is leading the industry and will accelerate further with FOX. The 2026 season will be a global spectacle, blending fan-favorite events with new venues that will elevate IndyCar to new heights."

Full 2026 IndyCar Schedule

To help fans keep track of all the action, here is the complete schedule for the 2026 IndyCar season, including the dates, venues, and broadcasting information for Brazil:

• March 1: Firestone GP of St. Petersburg – St. Petersburg (Street) – Disney+
• March 7: Phoenix Raceway – Phoenix (Oval) – Disney+
• March 15: GP of Arlington – Arlington (Street) – Disney+
• March 29: Barber Motorsports Park – Barber (Road Course) – Disney+
• April 19: Acura GP of Long Beach – Long Beach (Street) – Disney+
• May 9: IMS Road Course – Indianapolis (Road Course) – Disney+
• May 24: 110th Indianapolis 500 – Indianapolis (Oval) – Disney+
• May 31: Detroit GP – Detroit (Street) – Disney+
• June 7: WWTR Bommarito 500 – Gateway (Oval) – Disney+
• June 21: Road America – Elkhart Lake (Road Course) – Disney+
• July 5: Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio – Mid-Ohio (Road Course) – Disney+
• July 19: Music City GP – Nashville Superspeedway (Oval) – Disney+
• August 9: GP of Portland – Portland (Road Course) – Disney+
• August 16: GP of Markham – Markham (Street) – Disney+
• August 29: Milwaukee Mile – Race 1 – Milwaukee (Oval) – Disney+
• August 30: Milwaukee Mile – Race 2 – Milwaukee (Oval) – Disney+
• September 6: GP of Monterey – Laguna Seca (Road Course) – Disney+

The Future of IndyCar Racing

As the 2026 season approaches, the excitement is palpable among fans and teams alike. The series is not only focusing on expanding its reach but also on enhancing the overall racing experience. The combination of new venues and returning favorites is set to create a thrilling atmosphere for spectators, both in-person and on-screen.

The collaboration with FOX Sports is expected to play a crucial role in this expansion. With a commitment to showcasing the races on free television, the series aims to attract a broader audience, making IndyCar accessible to fans who may not have had the opportunity to watch it before. This strategic move is not only beneficial for the series but also for the growth of motorsport in the United States.

Moreover, the integration of modern technology and enhanced broadcasting techniques will likely improve the viewing experience. Fans can anticipate engaging coverage that highlights the on-track action while providing insights into the strategies and challenges faced by the drivers and teams.

Economic Impact and Community Engagement

The return of popular venues, along with new locations, is also expected to have a positive economic impact on the communities hosting the races. Major events like the Indianapolis 500 and the races in Nashville and Long Beach draw significant crowds, leading to increased tourism and local business revenue.

Community engagement initiatives are also a key focus for IndyCar. The series is committed to fostering relationships with local communities through various outreach programs. These initiatives aim to inspire the next generation of motorsport enthusiasts and provide opportunities for young people to get involved in racing, whether through education, internships, or hands-on experiences at the events.

Conclusion

The 2026 IndyCar season is poised to be a landmark year filled with exciting races, new venues, and a growing audience. With its commitment to innovation, tradition, and community engagement, the series is set to elevate the world of motorsport to new heights. Fans can look forward to an unforgettable season, where every race promises to deliver thrilling action and unforgettable moments. As the countdown to the season opener begins, the anticipation continues to build, making it clear that the future of IndyCar is brighter than ever.