Streets of St. Petersburg Race Preview

ECR looks to build on strong 2025 season as new era begins

Feb. 25, 2026 at 5:05pm

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The 2026 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg will mark the beginning of Season Fifteen for Ed Carpenter Racing (ECR). Alexander Rossi will remain with the team for a second season as driver of the No. 20 Java House Chevrolet, while Christian Rasmussen returns for his third year with the team, driving the No. 21 Splenda Stevia Chevrolet. ECR is entering the new season with an expanded leadership team, including new roles for Team Manager Derek Davidson and Vice President of Competition Matt Barnes.

Why it matters

ECR is looking to build on its best season in several years in 2025, highlighted by Rasmussen's victory at the Milwaukee Mile and both drivers finishing in the Top 5 for the first time since 2015. The team has also expanded its partnerships, collaborating with Cape Motorsports in INDY NXT and Jay Howard Driver Development in the USF Pro Championships to create a direct pathway to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.

The details

Last week, ECR participated in a two-day test at Phoenix Raceway, where Rossi set the fastest lap of both the morning and afternoon sessions on Day 2, with Rasmussen posting the second-fastest lap in the afternoon. When all lap times were combined, Rossi's best lap was the quickest of the entire test while Rasmussen ranked fourth overall. The team is looking to carry that momentum into the season opener in St. Petersburg.

  • The 2026 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg will take place from Friday, February 27 to Sunday, March 1, 2026.
  • Practice sessions will be held on Friday from 1:30-3 p.m. ET, Saturday from 9:30-11 a.m. ET, and Sunday from 9-10 a.m. ET.
  • Qualifying will take place on Saturday from 4:30-6 p.m. ET.
  • The race will be held on Sunday at 12 p.m. ET.

The players

Ed Carpenter

Co-owner and CEO of ECR, making him the only individual in the 33-car Indianapolis 500 field who handles both the responsibility of driving the race car while owning and operating his own team.

Alexander Rossi

The 34-year-old driver of the No. 20 Java House Chevrolet, who is entering his 11th season as an NTT INDYCAR SERIES driver and second with ECR.

Christian Rasmussen

The 25-year-old driver of the No. 21 Splenda Stevia Chevrolet, who is entering his third season with ECR and known for his strong performances on ovals.

Ted Gelov

Owner and Chairman of ECR, who joined the team prior to the 2025 season and continues to guide the organization through a rejuvenated era.

Matt Barnes

The new Vice President of Competition at ECR, stepping into the role after serving as Race Engineer and Chief Engineer.

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What they’re saying

“Last week's Phoenix test was a great first showing of how hard everyone at ECR has worked over the offseason. Now it is finally time to get the season started with the first race of the year and I could not be more excited. St. Pete is always a fun challenge with an unpredictable race, and I can't wait to get out there and see what the No. 20 Java House Chevrolet can accomplish.”

— Alexander Rossi

“I'm excited to get back on track in St. Pete with Splenda Stevia! ECR has done an incredible job over the offseason preparing and I'm looking forward to building on last year's progress. We had a very solid test at Phoenix as a team and now we want see our hard work come together in the season opener!”

— Christian Rasmussen

What’s next

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The takeaway

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