AJ Foyt Racing: A Revival Story for 2026
Indianapolis, IN — After navigating a turbulent period, AJ Foyt Racing appears poised for a resurgence in the 2026 IndyCar season, buoyed by new sponsorship and an improved driver lineup.
Founded by four-time Indianapolis 500 winner A.J. Foyt, the team experienced significant financial challenges after losing long-standing sponsor ABC Supply at the end of 2019. This forced a shift in their business model, relying on drivers with personal sponsors, which severely impacted competitiveness. By 2022, the team struggled, finishing at the bottom of the standings with rookie Kyle Kirkwood placing 24th and Dalton Kellett 25th.
However, 2023 marked a turning point. Marlyne Sexton, a devoted supporter of A.J. Foyt, stepped in as the primary sponsor for the No. 14 Chevy when Santino Ferrucci joined the team. Sexton’s backing continued through 2025, strengthening the team’s financial standing and morale following a series of setbacks, including issues with ROKiT, which resulted in lost sponsorship funds.
In a pivotal move, Team Penske formed a technical alliance with Foyt Racing, providing crucial setup information and equipment, significantly enhancing the team’s performance. By the end of the 2024 season, Ferrucci finished ninth in the championship—an encouraging sign for Foyt Racing, marking its best finish since 2002.
Following the unfortunate passing of Marlyne Sexton in June 2025, AJ Foyt Racing faced another sponsorship challenge. Yet, in a surprising twist, Diane Hendricks of ABC Supply re-emerged, securing full funding for the No. 14 in 2026, along with continued support for the “Homes For Our Troops” initiative.
“We got on our back foot… and as that started winding down, it was just hard to find another partner,” said Larry Foyt. “Losing Marlyne was a huge loss, but I think she’d be really proud of where we’re getting to as a team.”
The team has also signed talented young driver Caio Collet, who brings a robust support package from Brazilian logistics company Combitrans Amazonia. Collet’s arrival signifies a shift in the team’s prospects, marking a departure from previous seasons where securing promising drivers was a challenge.
“We’re in such a good place of growth,” Foyt stated, highlighting the uptick in interest and sponsor engagement. “We’re having to hire more people just to keep up.”
With rising expectations and renewed partnerships, AJ Foyt Racing aims for a stronger competitive presence as the 2026 season approaches, emphasizing its commitment to fostering new talent and reclaiming its place among IndyCar’s elite teams.
