IndyCar’s latest exploration will see it venture into Texas, with Arlington set to play host to a race for the first time in 2026.
A brand-new partnership with the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys and MLB’s Texas Rangers will see the cars fly around the stadium of both teams.
It’s akin to the sort of agreement Formula 1 has in Miami, with cars circling around the Hard Rock Stadium (which is used as a paddock) every May.
The all-new IndyCar event will be held towards the start of the year in March – which is where the season-opening Grand Prix of St Petersburg has usually been.
Roger Penske praises a ‘truly remarkable and innovative partnership’
IndyCar didn’t visit Texas in 2024, having last travelled to the Texas Motor Speedway at Fort Worth for a race that was won by Josef Newgarden in 2023.
That was an oval course though, with the new centrepiece set to be road-based after nearly a decade of conversations.
Speaking to RACER, Roger Penske seemed delighted with the move and is excited to see how things come together in Arlington.
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“Through a truly remarkable and innovative partnership, we’re going to build racing’s next global spectacle,” he said.
“Everyone involved is fully committed to delivering an incredible and unique event weekend for the city of Arlington, anchored by the stars of the NTT IndyCar Series.
“We’re grateful to the Cowboys, Rangers and REV Entertainment for entering into this partnership with us, and, of course, to Arlington’s leadership team for their excitement and ongoing support.”
IndyCar adds another race to the calendar
IndyCar’s six-month off-season can make it feel like a bit of a seasonal sport at times, with competition between March and September only.
Even then, there are periods with big breaks in between, making it hard for some drivers to find and build momentum.
Romain Grosjean is one of the drivers who backs the idea of extending the schedule to allow for more racing action.
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The fans would benefit from this too – but it’s also important to remember the well-being of the crews and everyone else in the paddock.
Being away from home for weeks on end can take its toll, for there are only a certain number of events that can take place before rest is required.