INDYCAR Teams Test at Phoenix Ahead of 2026 Season

Drivers prepare for season opener and return of Phoenix race on the schedule

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is holding a two-day test session at Phoenix Raceway, the final major on-track preparation before the season opener at St. Petersburg. All 25 drivers scheduled to compete in the 2026 season are participating, using the 1.022-mile oval to fine-tune their setups and re-acclimate to oval racing ahead of the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg and the Good Ranchers 250 at Phoenix.

Why it matters

The return of Phoenix Raceway to the INDYCAR schedule is significant, as the track holds a rich history within the series. The Good Ranchers 250 will be run as part of a doubleheader weekend with NASCAR, promising a large and enthusiastic crowd and showcasing the diversity of motorsports to a wider audience.

The details

Teams are utilizing the Phoenix oval to gather data and refine their strategies for the upcoming season. The Unser INDYCAR Open Test provides a controlled environment to experiment with different setups, tire compounds, and aerodynamic configurations, which will be crucial in optimizing performance at both St. Petersburg and Phoenix, as well as throughout the rest of the 2026 season.

  • The two-day Unser INDYCAR Open Test began on February 17, 2026.
  • Today's session runs from 2-7 p.m. ET.
  • Wednesday's schedule is split into 11 a.m.-2 p.m. ET and 3:30-6:30 p.m. ET sessions.
  • The Sebring International Raceway test, which concluded on February 10, 2026, served as an initial tune-up, focusing on road course setups.
  • The Good Ranchers 250 at Phoenix Raceway is scheduled for March 7, 2026.

The players

NTT INDYCAR SERIES

The premier open-wheel racing series in North America.

Phoenix Raceway

A 1.022-mile oval racetrack located in Avondale, Arizona, which is returning to the INDYCAR schedule for the first time since 2018.

Romain Grosjean

A driver who is returning to Dale Coyne Racing, bringing a wealth of experience and expected to elevate the team's performance.

Christian Rasmussen

A driver aiming to build on his oval racing success from previous seasons and adapt to the unique demands of oval racing.

Chevrolet and Honda

The two engine manufacturers committed to the INDYCAR SERIES in a historic multiyear agreement, underscoring the stability and growing appeal of the series.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The Unser INDYCAR Open Test at Phoenix Raceway represents a critical step in the preparations of all teams and drivers for the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season, as they gather valuable data, refine their strategies, and re-acclimate to the unique demands of oval racing.