IndyCar 2026 Driver Market Update
As the driver market for the 2026 IndyCar season approaches its conclusion, significant developments have surfaced following Rinus VeeKay’s confirmation at Juncos Hollinger Racing.
AJ Foyt Racing
Santino Ferrucci will return for his fourth season in the No. 14 Chevrolet, with Brazilian Caio Collet as his likely teammate. If confirmed, Collet would be the first Brazil-born full-time driver since Helio Castroneves in 2022. Collet’s runner-up finish in the 2025 Indy NXT championship, behind champion Dennis Hauger, showcases his potential, and he has already shown quick pace during testing with Foyt.
Dale Coyne Racing
Hauger, the current Indy NXT champion, is confirmed to drive for Dale Coyne Racing with a partnership with Andretti Global. The team is actively searching for a second driver, with Romain Grosjean—a former Coyne driver—under consideration, alongside Linus Lundqvist and Conor Daly. Coyne expressed hope for an announcement regarding the second driver soon.
PREMA Racing
PREMA Racing is working toward a return in 2026. While there have been no official confirmations, the team continues operations and has engine leases from Chevy secured for the upcoming season. Callum Ilott and Robert Shwarzman remain contracted if the team returns. Noteworthily, Michael Andretti has denied any interest in acquiring PREMA, rejecting recent speculation that arose from miscommunication.
Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing
Mick Schumacher recently tested with RLL, following his manager’s outreach to multiple teams. The test was constructive, but no commitments have been established yet for Schumacher to race alongside Graham Rahal and Louis Foster. The team aims to enhance competitiveness in their third entry and is exploring options beyond experienced drivers, highlighting Schumacher’s past achievements in F2 and F1 as compelling.
Summary
As teams finalize their rosters for 2026, Foyt has completed its lineup, Coyne is on the verge of a second driver announcement, and RLL is weighing its options. Meanwhile, PREMA’s future is uncertain but hopeful, and ongoing tests, including Schumacher’s, reflect the dynamic driver market heading into the new season.
