INDY NXT 2026: An Exciting New Era for the Series

The INDY NXT by Firestone is gearing up for an exhilarating 2026 season, marking a significant milestone in its history. This feeder series for the IndyCar Championship is set to showcase all its races live on television for the second consecutive year, boasting a remarkable total of 17 events. This achievement is the result of a strategic partnership between INDYCAR and FOX Sports, which has elevated the visibility and appeal of the series. The newly announced schedule, released on December 19, 2025, reflects a decisive shift in the series’ role, as INDY NXT steps out of the shadows to play a crucial part in shaping the future of open-wheel racing in America.

Season Kickoff in St. Petersburg

The 2026 season will officially kick off on Sunday, March 1, in the vibrant streets of St. Petersburg, Florida, at noon local time (Brasília). The opening event mirrors the start of the IndyCar series, setting the stage for a year that blends tradition with innovation and strategic exposure. The urban setting of St. Petersburg not only provides a picturesque backdrop but also enhances the excitement surrounding the first race of the season.

Expanding Horizons: New Race Locations

Following the season opener, INDY NXT will make its debut in Arlington, Texas, on March 15. This new street circuit represents a bold move to expand the series’ footprint and engage with new fans in untapped markets. The race will also take place at noon, aligning with the strategic goals of INDYCAR to create integrated events that resonate with the broader motorsport community.

Doubleheader Format Enhancements

One of the standout features of the 2026 calendar is the introduction of doubleheader weekends at three different venues. The first doubleheader will occur at Barber Motorsports Park at the end of March, with races scheduled for Saturday at 2 PM and Sunday at noon. These time slots have been carefully chosen to maximize audience engagement and enhance the connection between INDY NXT and IndyCar fans.

This doubleheader format will also be utilized at Road America in June, culminating in an exciting finale at Laguna Seca during the first weekend of September. This season-ending event will not only feature two thrilling races but will also include the championship showdown on Sunday at 1:30 PM Brasília time. These doubleheader weekends promise to deliver high-stakes racing and increased opportunities for drivers to showcase their talent.

Aligning with Global Sporting Events

The 2026 INDY NXT schedule strategically aligns with the global sports calendar, particularly during the FIFA World Cup. While the world’s attention will be on football, INDY NXT will continue to host races at iconic venues like Mid-Ohio and Road America. This strategic timing aims to leverage the heightened sports viewership and provide an expanded platform for the series, particularly during the doubleheader at Mid-Ohio on July 4 and 5, with races starting at 2 PM on Saturday and 11 AM on Sunday.

A Diverse Technical Challenge

The variety of circuits featured in the 2026 season showcases the technical diversity of the championship. From the mixed layout of Indianapolis to the street circuits of Detroit, the short oval of World Wide Technology Raceway, and the historic Milwaukee Mile, drivers will encounter a comprehensive set of challenges designed to test their skills. In 2026, any driver aspiring to become the INDY NXT champion will need to demonstrate genuine versatility, a quality essential for anyone looking to ascend to the ranks of IndyCar.

Mark Miles on the Future of INDY NXT

Mark Miles, the president and CEO of Penske Entertainment, encapsulates the current momentum of INDY NXT, stating that the growth of the series is a direct result of its collaboration with FOX Sports and the commitment to position it as a competitive and appealing product. This evolution is not solely about viewership; it emphasizes preparation, storytelling, and the importance of nurturing grassroots talent.

Brazilian Fans and Continued Access

In Brazil, fans can expect to follow the INDY NXT series through broadcasts on IndyCar Live and Disney+, ensuring continued access to the development of future stars in the world of open-wheel racing. The commitment to showcasing this series reflects the growing popularity of motorsport in Brazil and the importance of keeping fans engaged with emerging talent.

Transforming Driver Development into Entertainment

Ultimately, the INDY NXT 2026 calendar represents more than just a schedule of dates and times; it sends a powerful message that driver development is no longer a behind-the-scenes process but an exciting spectacle for all to witness. For motorsport enthusiasts, tracking the journey of these young drivers from the grassroots level to the pinnacle of racing is more captivating than ever.

INDY NXT 2026 Race Schedule

Here’s a detailed look at the INDY NXT 2026 race schedule, including dates, locations, and broadcast information, all in Brasília time:

• Sunday, March 1: St. Petersburg Streets – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 12:00
• Sunday, March 15: Arlington Streets – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 12:00
• Saturday, March 28: Barber Motorsports Park – Race 1 – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 14:00
• Sunday, March 29: Barber Motorsports Park – Race 2 – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 12:00
• Friday, May 8: IMS Road Course – Race 1 – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 17:00
• Saturday, May 9: IMS Road Course – Race 2 – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 15:30
• Sunday, May 31: Detroit Streets – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 11:30
• Sunday, June 7: World Wide Technology Raceway – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 18:30
• Saturday, June 20: Road America – Race 1 – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 13:30
• Sunday, June 21: Road America – Race 2 – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 13:00
• Saturday, July 4: Mid-Ohio – Race 1 – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 14:00
• Sunday, July 5: Mid-Ohio – Race 2 – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 11:00
• Sunday, July 19: Nashville Superspeedway – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ – Time TBD
• Sunday, August 9: Portland International Raceway – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 15:00
• Sunday, August 30: Milwaukee Mile – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 12:00
• Saturday, September 5: Laguna Seca – Race 1 – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 19:30
• Sunday, September 6: Laguna Seca – Race 2 – INDYCAR LIVE / Disney+ at 13:30

The 2026 season of INDY NXT is poised to be a transformative experience, not only for the drivers but also for fans who will witness the next generation of motorsport talent emerge. With a robust schedule, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to elevating the series’ profile, INDY NXT is set to continue its ascent in the world of racing. As the series evolves and adapts to the changing landscape of motorsport, it remains a vital stepping stone for those aspiring to reach the pinnacle of open-wheel racing.