Pato O'Ward and David Malukas Prepare for New Phoenix Oval Race

Drivers look to adapt to unique track characteristics ahead of season-opening stretch

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Pato O'Ward and David Malukas, drivers in the NTT INDYCAR Series, participated in a pre-season test at Phoenix Raceway, a new oval track added to the calendar this year. Both drivers expressed excitement about the unique challenges of the circuit, which features distinct differences between Turns 1/2 and 3/4. As they prepare for the season-opening stretch of three races in quick succession, the drivers discussed their approaches to learning the new track and working with their respective teams to find the optimal car setups.

Why it matters

The addition of Phoenix Raceway to the INDYCAR schedule provides a new oval test for drivers and teams, requiring them to quickly adapt their setups and driving styles to the track's distinctive characteristics. With the season starting with three races in a short timeframe, how the drivers and teams perform at this new venue could set the tone for the early part of the championship.

The details

Pato O'Ward, driving the No. 5 McLaren Chevrolet, and David Malukas, in the No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet, both noted the similarities between Phoenix and other ovals like Gateway and Iowa, with the significant differences between Turns 1/2 and 3/4 requiring constant adjustments to the car's handling. Malukas, who had the fastest lap of the test session, highlighted the importance of quickly adapting the car's setup to the changing track conditions throughout a run. Both drivers expressed optimism about the racing potential of the circuit, though acknowledged the unknown factors of sand and tire marbling that could come into play during the race weekend.

  • The Unser INDYCAR open test at Phoenix Raceway took place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • The Phoenix race weekend is scheduled for March 1, 2026.

The players

Pato O'Ward

A nine-time winner in the NTT INDYCAR Series, O'Ward is entering his seventh full season and driving the No. 5 McLaren Chevrolet.

David Malukas

The driver of the No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet, Malukas is in his first season with the powerhouse Penske organization after previously racing for other teams.

Alex Palou

The four-time reigning NTT INDYCAR Series champion, driving the No. 10 DHL Chip Ganassi Racing Honda.

Phoenix Raceway

A 1-mile oval circuit located in Avondale, Arizona, Phoenix Raceway is a new addition to the 2026 NTT INDYCAR Series schedule.

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What they’re saying

“I mean, it's very, very fast. When you are going through especially one and two, I mean, we are on the limit.”

— David Malukas, Driver, No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet (tracksideonline.com)

“I think it's hard for test days, because you know, you're running through your own plans, but I mean, of course, it feels good. We know that we have pace. The car is good, and we've kicked off our oval set with the team on a strong suit.”

— David Malukas, Driver, No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet (tracksideonline.com)

“I would say it really doesn't have too much of a comparison if we were to start with an oval or not.”

— Pato O'Ward, Driver, No. 5 McLaren Chevrolet (tracksideonline.com)

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

This new addition to the INDYCAR schedule will test the drivers' and teams' ability to quickly adapt to a unique oval circuit, setting the stage for an intriguing start to the 2026 season as they navigate the back-to-back-to-back races beginning at Phoenix.