INDYCAR Announces Independent Officiating for 2026 Season

New not-for-profit entity INDYCAR Officiating Inc. to oversee all officiating decisions with complete autonomy.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:50am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an INDYCAR race, with sharp, overlapping planes of bright racing colors and dynamic movement, conveying the sport's high-speed action and the need for fair, transparent officiating.INDYCAR's new independent officiating system promises to bring a fresh, unbiased perspective to the sport's decision-making process.St. Petersburg Today

INDYCAR has established a new independent officiating system for the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT by Firestone championships. The not-for-profit INDYCAR Officiating Inc. will be governed by an Independent Officiating Board (IOB) of three respected industry experts, with no interference from INDYCAR or Penske Entertainment.

Why it matters

This move towards independent officiating is a significant shift for INDYCAR, aimed at bringing increased fairness, consistency, and transparency to the sport's rulebook enforcement and race control decisions. The involvement of the FIA also adds a global perspective to the new system.

The details

The IOB will have complete autonomy in selecting a Managing Director of Officiating (MDO) who will be responsible for all officiating decisions, from hiring race control personnel to enforcing the rulebooks. The three IOB members were carefully chosen, with two selected by a vote from INDYCAR team owners and the third appointed by the FIA.

  • The hiring of the MDO and further details will be announced in early 2026.
  • The 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT championships will kick off on March 1, 2026, in St. Petersburg, Florida.

The players

Ray Evernham

A motorsports legend, Evernham's resume includes his days as Jeff Gordon's crew chief and his pioneering role in Dodge's NASCAR return. He brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the sport.

Raj Nair

With over three decades in the automotive and racing industries, Nair is an expert in technical compliance. His executive roles at Singer Group, Multimatic, and Ford Motor Company, including as North American President, make him an invaluable asset to the board.

Ronan Morgan

Morgan's appointment by the FIA brings a global perspective. With over 50 years of motorsport experience, he has served as a senior official, promoter, and competitor. His roles with the FIA, including as chairman of stewards and sporting manager of the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix, showcase his expertise and dedication.

J. Douglas Boles

INDYCAR President, emphasizing the commitment to this independent system and praising the world-class board for their character and passion.

Chip Ganassi

Owner of Chip Ganassi Racing, expressing confidence in the elected board.

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What they’re saying

“This collaboration will support the growth of the series, combining the FIA's consistent officiating expertise with INDYCAR's innovation.”

— Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President

“We applaud INDYCAR's direction, recognizing the excellent board members and the added experience brought by the FIA appointee.”

— Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports

What’s next

The hiring of the MDO and further details will be announced in early 2026, leading up to the thrilling NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT championships, kicking off on March 1, 2026, in St. Petersburg, Florida.

The takeaway

INDYCAR's move towards independent officiating is a significant shift in the sport, aimed at bringing increased fairness, consistency, and transparency to the enforcement of the rulebook and race control decisions. The involvement of the FIA and the carefully selected IOB members suggest a balanced and global approach to this new system.