Cusick Morgan Motorsports: A New Era in Racing

Cusick Motorsports, established in 2021 and making waves with its recent participation in the Indianapolis 500 alongside Dreyer & Reinbold Racing, has announced a significant rebranding. As of April 4, the team will now be known as Cusick Morgan Motorsports. This change honors Billy Morgan’s contributions, as he transitions from merely being the director to taking on a co-operational partnership role alongside Don Cusick.

Celebrating a New Identity

The rebranding to Cusick Morgan Motorsports not only reflects a change in name but also introduces a new logo, marking a pivotal moment in the team’s evolution. This fresh identity accompanies the strategic decision to officially enter Indy NXT by Firestone in 2026, with plans to field two cars in a technical partnership with HMD Motorsports—an established name in Indy’s developmental series.

Acknowledging Contributions

Don Cusick, in a recent interview with INDYCAR.com, expressed his pride in the new partnership. “Billy has proven himself to be a top-tier operator and truly deserves to be a partner in our team,” he stated. “I take pride in seeing his name alongside mine and ensuring that this legacy continues for many years to come. As we enter this new phase in motorsport, I know Billy is the right person to lead the charge.”

For Morgan, this transition is a meaningful milestone. “It’s an incredible honor to be named co-operational partner alongside Don,” he remarked. “We are just at the beginning of our journey, and our goal is to elevate our program with the help of our teammates, partners, and drivers.”

Building Experience and Foundations

Since its inception, Cusick Motorsports has actively participated in the Indianapolis 500, aligning cars in collaboration with Dreyer & Reinbold Racing. The team’s continued involvement in the event in 2024 and 2025 has solidified its connection to this iconic race.

Investing in Indy NXT is part of a broader long-term strategy aimed at establishing a solid foundation for the team. By gaining experience and building a robust framework, Cusick Morgan Motorsports intends to prepare itself for a more consistent presence in the IndyCar Series.

Navigating Challenges Ahead

While the team’s expansion into full-time IndyCar racing seems like a natural progression, it faces significant hurdles. Two primary challenges are the charter system implemented in 2025 and the delayed release of the new chassis for the series.

In a discussion on the IndyCast Brasil, Don Cusick acknowledged the complications introduced by the charter system, which complicates plans for expansion. To compete full-time, the team would need to secure one of the 25 fixed grid spots—a considerable investment that may be prohibitive for new entrants.

Moreover, Cusick hinted that the highly anticipated new Indy chassis, initially expected to debut in 2027, has now been pushed back to 2028. “The plan was to compete full-time or at least for most of the season in 2027 when the new car was set to arrive, but now this change won’t happen until 2028—if it even happens then. It continues to be delayed,” he noted.

Focused on the Future

In the meantime, Cusick Morgan Motorsports is heavily investing in Indy NXT, where it aims to cultivate emerging talents and build a reservoir of technical expertise. The team, which initially focused on the Indianapolis 500, is now proceeding cautiously, preparing for a significant leap when the conditions within the category become favorable.

Strategic Partnerships in Indy NXT

The partnership with HMD Motorsports is a strategic move that will allow Cusick Morgan Motorsports to benefit from HMD’s extensive experience and resources in the Indy NXT series. This collaboration is expected to provide invaluable insights and technical support, enabling the team to develop its drivers and enhance its competitive edge.

Developing Young Talent

Fostering young talent is a core component of the team’s strategy. By participating in Indy NXT, Cusick Morgan Motorsports plans to identify and nurture promising drivers who can potentially transition to IndyCar in the future. The emphasis on driver development not only strengthens the team’s lineup but also contributes to the overall growth of motorsport.

The Path to Full-Time IndyCar Racing

Cusick Morgan Motorsports envisions a clear path toward full-time participation in the IndyCar series. By establishing a solid foundation in Indy NXT, the team aims to prepare itself for the demands of higher-level competition. This methodical approach allows them to build experience, refine their operations, and ultimately position themselves for success in IndyCar.

Overcoming Financial Barriers

One of the most significant challenges facing new entrants in the IndyCar series is the financial barrier imposed by the charter system. The necessity to acquire a charter can be a daunting prospect for teams seeking to compete at the highest level. Cusick Morgan Motorsports is aware of this hurdle and is actively exploring avenues to navigate the financial landscape of the sport.

Emphasizing Technical Development

As the team prepares for its foray into Indy NXT, technical development will be a primary focus. The collaboration with HMD Motorsports will play a crucial role in accelerating this development. By leveraging HMD’s expertise, Cusick Morgan Motorsports can enhance its engineering capabilities, ensuring that its cars are competitive on the track.

Innovation and Adaptation

The racing landscape is constantly evolving, and teams must remain adaptable to stay competitive. Cusick Morgan Motorsports is committed to innovation and will continuously assess its strategies to respond to the changing dynamics of the sport. This adaptability will be key to their long-term success in both Indy NXT and IndyCar.

Building a Stronger Brand

With the rebranding to Cusick Morgan Motorsports, the team aims to build a stronger brand identity within the racing community. The new logo and name represent not just a shift in ownership but also a commitment to excellence and a focus on the future. As they establish their presence in the motorsport world, the team hopes to engage fans and create a loyal following.

Engaging with Fans and the Community

The team understands the importance of engaging with fans and the broader community. By participating in events, interacting with followers on social media, and promoting a positive image, Cusick Morgan Motorsports aims to build a strong connection with its audience. This engagement is essential for fostering a supportive fan base that will be instrumental in the team’s journey.

Looking Ahead

As Cusick Morgan Motorsports embarks on this exciting new chapter, the team remains focused on its goals. With a commitment to excellence, a strong emphasis on talent development, and strategic partnerships, the team is poised for growth and success in the competitive world of motorsport.

Conclusion of a New Era

The rebranding to Cusick Morgan Motorsports signifies much more than a name change; it represents a renewed focus on the future of the team in the racing world. With plans to enter Indy NXT and a clear vision for the path ahead, the team is ready to take on the challenges of the sport while nurturing the next generation of racing talent.

In conclusion, the journey of Cusick Morgan Motorsports is just beginning, and with the right strategy, dedication, and partnerships, they aim to make a significant impact in the world of racing. As they prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, the team is committed to building a legacy that reflects their passion for motorsport and their drive for success.