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IndyCar Drivers Vie for Historic 300th Win in St. Petersburg
Fierce rivalries, team changes, and a milestone race set the stage for the 2026 season opener.
Feb. 27, 2026 at 7:08pm
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The 2026 NTT IndyCar Series season kicks off this weekend on the challenging street circuit in St. Petersburg, Florida, with drivers and teams eager to set the tone for the 18-race campaign. Defending champion Alex Palou looks to continue his dominant run, while veteran contenders like Josef Newgarden, Scott Dixon, and Will Power aim to unseat the young champion. The race also marks a historic milestone, as the first driver to claim victory will become the 300th race winner in IndyCar history.
Why it matters
The St. Petersburg race is a critical early-season test that can significantly impact a driver's championship aspirations. With several top teams and drivers facing pressure to deliver improved results, the competition is expected to be fierce as they vie for the coveted 300th IndyCar win.
The details
Last year, Palou overtook Dixon and Newgarden late to secure the victory, launching him toward the title. This year, Newgarden is hungry to bounce back, while Power's move to Andretti Global adds intrigue. Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing's addition of Mick Schumacher also brings a fresh storyline to the grid.
- The 2026 NTT IndyCar Series season begins on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
- The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg will start at 12 noon ET on March 1, 2026.
The players
Alex Palou
The defending IndyCar series champion, Palou is looking to continue his dominant run and become the 300th race winner in IndyCar history.
Josef Newgarden
The Team Penske driver is eager to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season and claim victory on the streets of St. Petersburg.
Will Power
The veteran driver has switched to Andretti Global for 2026 and will be looking to add to his two previous wins on the St. Petersburg circuit.
Scott Dixon
The six-time IndyCar champion has consistently performed well in St. Petersburg without a win, making him a serious contender this weekend.
Mick Schumacher
The 26-year-old joins Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing and brings experience on street and road courses that could give him an early-season edge.
What they’re saying
“We must be at our best from the very first race if we want to contend for the championship this year.”
— Josef Newgarden, Driver, Team Penske
“The 300th race winner in IndyCar history will be making history. That's the kind of milestone that adds extra motivation for all of us.”
— Will Power
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 season-opening race in St. Petersburg promises fierce competition as drivers and teams vie for the historic 300th IndyCar victory, setting the tone for what could be an unpredictable and exciting 2026 campaign.
