Mick Schumacher Embraces IndyCar Move

The former F1 driver says his shift to Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing opens new opportunities—and could boost IndyCar's profile abroad.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Despite some confusing terminology, Mick Schumacher is content with his move from Europe to the United States and Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing. He said he wants racing fans across the Atlantic to appreciate IndyCar more, as he believes there are many good things about the series that aren't being portrayed in Europe. Schumacher had considered options in Europe like the WEC, but ultimately decided IndyCar was the best fit for him at the moment.

Why it matters

Schumacher's move to IndyCar could help raise the profile of the series in Europe, where it has traditionally struggled to gain traction compared to Formula 1. As a former F1 driver, Schumacher has a strong following in Europe and his participation in IndyCar could inspire more European drivers and fans to take an interest in the American open-wheel series.

The details

Schumacher said he had considered options in Europe like the WEC, but ultimately decided IndyCar was the best fit for him at the moment. He is excited about the many opportunities in IndyCar and believes racing in America will be 'quite fun.' Schumacher is still adjusting to the differences in terminology and racing style, such as oval racing, but is eager to learn.

  • Schumacher announced his move to IndyCar in February 2026.

The players

Mick Schumacher

A former Formula 1 driver who is now racing in the IndyCar series for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing.

Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing

The IndyCar team that Mick Schumacher is now driving for.

Christian Lundgaard

A rising star in the Arrow McLaren IndyCar team, who believes interest in IndyCar is growing in Europe.

Caio Collet

A Brazilian rookie driver in the IndyCar series, who is excited about the series' return to free-to-air television in his home country.

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What they’re saying

“I think there's so many good things out here and I think so many good things that aren't really being portrayed in Europe. Hopefully with me coming here, these things will come over to Europe and we'll have more people joining. and hopefully the broadcast will also go back to Germany.”

— Mick Schumacher (autoweek.com)

“I think the interest in IndyCar is growing [in Europe]. For Formula 1, Drive to Survive has increased the popularity significantly. I think we're sort of seeing the same direction with 100 Days to Indy with IndyCar. Personally, I think we're doing many great things. I think we need to do more of 'em. Ultimately in five years' time, we might sit here and clap because we've gotten to that point.”

— Christian Lundgaard, Arrow McLaren IndyCar driver (autoweek.com)

“It's such a nice thing to have IndyCar on open TV in Brazil, and I think it will help grow the sport in South America.”

— Caio Collet, A.J. Foyt Racing rookie (autoweek.com)

What’s next

Schumacher will make his IndyCar debut at the season-opening race in St. Petersburg, Florida on March 9, 2026.

The takeaway

Mick Schumacher's move to IndyCar represents a significant opportunity to raise the profile of the series in Europe and beyond, as the former F1 driver believes there are many positive aspects of IndyCar that are not being fully appreciated outside of North America. His participation could inspire more European drivers and fans to take an interest in the American open-wheel series.