INDYCAR Stars Dixon and Rossi Test Tires for Phoenix Return

Veteran drivers evaluate Firestone Firehawk compounds ahead of 2026 oval race

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:20pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in bold, vibrant colors depicting an INDYCAR race at Phoenix Raceway, with the cars and track rendered in an abstract, cubist style.A cubist interpretation of the upcoming INDYCAR race at Phoenix Raceway, where veteran drivers will put the tires to the test on the historic oval.Dixon Today

Scott Dixon and Alexander Rossi, two of the biggest names in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, recently participated in a crucial tire test at Phoenix Raceway. The two-day session on November 6-7, 2025 had the drivers evaluating various Firestone Firehawk tire compounds and constructions in preparation for the series' return to the 1-mile oval in March 2026.

Why it matters

The feedback from Dixon and Rossi will directly inform Firestone's tire selection for the upcoming Phoenix race, which marks the only oval event before the Indianapolis 500. Getting the right tire compound is critical for close, competitive racing on the short oval.

The details

Dixon, a six-time INDYCAR champion, drove the No. 9 Chip Ganassi Racing Honda, while 2016 Indy 500 winner Rossi tested the No. 20 Ed Carpenter Racing Chevrolet. Both drivers evaluated multiple tire options, with Rossi emphasizing the importance of selecting the right compound for the dynamic short-oval racing at Phoenix.

  • The tire test took place on November 6-7, 2025.
  • The NTT INDYCAR SERIES will return to Phoenix Raceway on March 7, 2026, in a combined weekend with the NASCAR Cup Series.

The players

Scott Dixon

A six-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion who drove for Honda teams in the No. 9 Chip Ganassi Racing car during the tire test.

Alexander Rossi

The 2016 Indianapolis 500 winner who tested for Chevrolet teams in the No. 20 Ed Carpenter Racing machine during the tire evaluation.

Firestone

The exclusive tire supplier for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, responsible for providing the Firehawk tires used by all teams.

Phoenix Raceway

The 1-mile oval in the Valley of the Sun that has hosted 64 INDYCAR races since 1964 and will welcome the series back in 2026.

Dennis Hauger

The 2025 INDY NXT by Firestone champion who cleared the series' rookie oval test at Nashville Superspeedway, making him eligible to compete in all non-Indy 500 oval races in 2026.

Caio Collet

The 2025 INDY NXT by Firestone runner-up who also passed the rookie oval test at Nashville Superspeedway, allowing him to race on all non-Indy 500 ovals in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“It's essential for the series to choose the right tire, especially with the close nature of INDYCAR racing and the dynamic short-oval racing.”

— Alexander Rossi, NTT INDYCAR SERIES Driver

“We're optimistic about the upcoming race, expecting a compelling and action-packed show when open-wheel cars return to the Valley of the Sun.”

— Scott Dixon, NTT INDYCAR SERIES Driver

What’s next

The feedback from Dixon and Rossi's tire test will guide Firestone's selection of the compound to be used by the entire INDYCAR field when the series returns to Phoenix Raceway on March 7, 2026.

The takeaway

This tire test is a crucial step in preparing the NTT INDYCAR SERIES for its highly anticipated return to the historic Phoenix Raceway, where the drivers will showcase their skills on the 1-mile oval in front of an enthusiastic crowd.