IndyCar 2026 Schedule Update: Early Insights and Race Confirmations
As the IndyCar paddock buzzed in Milwaukee last weekend, one question dominated discussions: the release date of the 2026 schedule. While no specific timeline has been announced, several key developments are emerging that could reshape the series landscape.
Confirmed Events:
The 2026 season will kick off with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, scheduled for March 1. This year marks a significant change, as NASCAR’s Craftsman Trucks will join the festivities on February 28. Following St. Petersburg, teams are expected to race at Phoenix Raceway, slated for March 7. This marks a return for IndyCar to Phoenix after a hiatus since 2018, with the facility reporting extensive renovations.
Sources indicate that this race weekend will feature a collaborative format with NASCAR, furthering a new partnership strategy from FOX, which serves as the year-round broadcaster for IndyCar and the exclusive home for early-season NASCAR events.
Upcoming Race Locations:
IndyCar’s schedule will see consecutive races, with a debut at the Grand Prix of Arlington on March 15, set at a temporary circuit near major Dallas sports venues. The racing season will then progress to the Long Beach Grand Prix on April 19, with opportunities for additional races potentially filling gaps.
Notable dates already confirmed include May 9 for the Sonsio Grand Prix on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course, May 24 for the Indianapolis 500, and May 31 for the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix. Other traditional races remain awaiting public confirmation.
Toronto’s Future:
The future of the Toronto race is uncertain due to World Cup activities in 2026. IndyCar President Doug Boles expressed optimism that races in Toronto, Laguna Seca, and Portland will remain, though Toronto’s fate is particularly precarious. Discussions are underway for a possible alternate venue in Markham, Ontario, located approximately 45 minutes from Toronto.
International Additions:
Plans for an event in Mexico City at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez are still alive, with ongoing negotiations reported to be progressing confidently despite previous concerns.
Conclusion:
With much of the 2026 calendar nearing completion, only a handful of slots remain unconfirmed. The season finale approaches this Sunday with the 225-lap Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix in Nashville, marking the end of the current season as anticipation builds for the next.
