Marcus Armstrong Emerges as Oval Specialist in INDYCAR

Meyer Shank Racing driver breaks down team's strategy ahead of Unser INDYCAR Open Test at Phoenix Raceway

Feb. 20, 2026 at 9:31pm

Meyer Shank Racing driver Marcus Armstrong is making a name for himself as an oval specialist in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Ahead of this week's Unser INDYCAR Open Test at Phoenix Raceway, Armstrong breaks down what his team is looking for to continue his success on oval tracks.

Why it matters

Armstrong's rise as an oval specialist is significant, as the NTT INDYCAR SERIES features a diverse mix of track types that require drivers to excel on both road/street courses and ovals. If Armstrong can continue to perform well on ovals, it could make him a serious championship contender.

The details

In the video, Armstrong discusses the team's focus areas for the Phoenix test, including finding the right balance and setup for the No. 66 car to maximize performance on the 1-mile oval. He notes that oval racing requires a different driving style and car setup compared to road/street courses, and the team is working to dial in those details ahead of the season opener on the Streets of St. Petersburg.

  • The Unser INDYCAR Open Test at Phoenix Raceway is scheduled for this week.
  • The 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season kicks off on March 1 with the Streets of St. Petersburg race.

The players

Marcus Armstrong

A driver for Meyer Shank Racing in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, who is emerging as an oval specialist in the series.

Meyer Shank Racing

An INDYCAR team that fields the No. 66 car driven by Marcus Armstrong.

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What they’re saying

“We're looking to find the right balance and setup for the No. 66 car to maximize our performance on the oval at Phoenix.”

— Marcus Armstrong, Driver, Meyer Shank Racing

What’s next

The Unser INDYCAR Open Test at Phoenix Raceway is scheduled for this week, ahead of the season-opening Streets of St. Petersburg race on March 1.

The takeaway

Marcus Armstrong's emergence as an oval specialist in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES could make him a serious championship contender, as the series features a diverse mix of track types that require drivers to excel on both road/street courses and ovals.