IndyCar Series Unveils Exciting Schedule for the 2026 Season
The IndyCar Series has officially revealed its much-anticipated schedule for the 2026 season, putting an end to months of anticipation and speculation among fans and teams. This upcoming season is set to be thrilling, with a blend of returning favorites and new venues. Notably, the series will kick off with four races in March, featuring three consecutive weekends of action-packed racing. Among the highlights is the return to Phoenix Raceway, which will host a race for the first time since 2018, making it an exciting addition to the calendar.
Key Changes in the 2026 Schedule
In contrast to the 2025 lineup, the 2026 season will not include Iowa Speedway or Thermal Club, which previously hosted races. Additionally, the anticipated race in Mexico will not take place, and the proposed street race in Washington D.C. has been removed from the schedule. The series will instead focus on strengthening its presence in established markets while exploring new opportunities.
Season Opening at St. Petersburg
The 2026 season will officially begin on Sunday, March 1, with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. This marks the fifth consecutive year that the IndyCar Series will commence its season on the picturesque streets of St. Petersburg, Florida. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and enthusiastic fanbase, this event is a wonderful way to start the racing season. Following St. Petersburg, the series will head to Phoenix Raceway on March 7, where it will race on the newly reconfigured “dogleg” layout. This event will coincide with a joint NASCAR-IndyCar weekend, promising a spectacular show for motorsport enthusiasts.
New Circuit in Arlington
On March 15, the inaugural IndyCar Grand Prix of Arlington will take place, introducing a brand-new street circuit featuring 14 turns over a distance of 2.73 miles. This event represents a significant collaboration between IndyCar, the Dallas Cowboys, and REV Entertainment, showcasing the potential for innovative partnerships in the world of motorsports. The month will close with a return to Barber Motorsports Park on March 29, where the series will race on the scenic natural-terrain road course.
Spring Break and Iconic Long Beach Race
Following a spring break, the action will resume on April 19 at the iconic Streets of Long Beach for the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. This race, entering its 42nd edition, is a fan favorite and promises to deliver the thrilling competition that IndyCar is known for. May will be particularly significant, as it features the traditional Month of May at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. This month will kick off with a road course race on May 9, followed by qualifying for the 110th Indianapolis 500 on May 16-17, culminating in the historic “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” on May 24.
Summer Races and Exciting Events
As the summer heats up, the series will host the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix on May 31, followed by a night race at World Wide Technology Raceway on June 7. The diversity of racing formats will continue with visits to Road America on June 21 and Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course on July 5, each presenting unique challenges that test the skill and adaptability of drivers and teams alike.
A notable event will take place at the Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix at Nashville Superspeedway, which has been rescheduled to July 19. This race will occur under the lights on a 1.33-mile concrete oval, enhancing the excitement of this summer racing spectacle and drawing in fans eager for nighttime racing.
A Busy August
August will bring four consecutive race weekends, starting with Portland International Raceway on August 9. The following weekend will see the series head to the new Streets of Markham in Ontario on August 16. The month will conclude with a thrilling doubleheader at the historic Milwaukee Mile on August 29-30, ensuring that fans will have plenty of action and entertainment throughout the summer.
Season Finale at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
The 2026 season will culminate with the Grand Prix of Monterey at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca on September 6. This iconic track is known for its challenging turns and stunning views, making it a fitting venue for the season finale. Fans can expect a dramatic conclusion to the championship, where the stakes will be high, and every point counts.
Broadcast and Coverage
For the second consecutive season, all 17 races of the IndyCar Series will be broadcast on FOX, enhancing accessibility for fans across the nation. Additionally, there will be comprehensive coverage of the Indianapolis 500 qualifying, ensuring that viewers do not miss any of the thrilling moments leading up to the race.
Mark Miles, President and CEO of Penske Entertainment Corp., expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming season. "Our growth is industry-leading and will only accelerate faster as we continue our powerful partnership with FOX Sports and increase investment in our events," he stated. The 2026 schedule promises to be a dynamic showcase for the sport, combining popular race weekends with exciting new venues.
IndyCar President J. Douglas Boles echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the thrilling start to the season with four races in five weeks. The collaboration with NASCAR at Phoenix Raceway is particularly noteworthy, as it represents a unique opportunity for motorsport fans to experience both series in one weekend, celebrating the spirit of racing.
Anticipation for the Upcoming Season
As fans eagerly await the start of the 2026 IndyCar Series, the excitement is palpable. With a diverse schedule that includes both new circuits and beloved venues, the season promises to deliver intense competition and unforgettable moments. The mix of street, oval, and road course races will challenge drivers and teams, pushing them to their limits as they compete for the championship.
The IndyCar Series continues to evolve, reflecting the changing landscape of motorsport and the interests of fans. By focusing on innovative partnerships and exciting race formats, the series is well-positioned to attract new audiences while keeping its loyal fanbase engaged.
With the countdown to the season opener at St. Petersburg underway, the anticipation among drivers, teams, and fans alike is building. The 2026 season is set to be one for the books, filled with thrilling races, dramatic finishes, and the relentless pursuit of victory.
In the coming days, additional details regarding start times for the 2026 events and the INDY NXT by Firestone schedule will be announced, further heightening the excitement as the season draws near. Fans can stay informed and engaged through regular updates, ensuring they are part of the action as the IndyCar Series gears up for another unforgettable season.
