The Rise of Motorsport Doubleheaders: Is This the Future of Racing?
The recent “Desert Double” weekend at Phoenix Raceway, featuring both IndyCar and NASCAR, has ignited a conversation about the future of motorsport events. For the first time, the two series shared an oval, drawing significant viewership and sparking debate about potential collaboration. But is this a fleeting experiment, or a sign of things to come?
A Ratings Boost for IndyCar
Saturday’s IndyCar race saw an average of 1.247 million viewers, a remarkable 391% increase compared to the series’ last solo event at Phoenix in 2018. This jump is particularly noteworthy considering the 2018 race aired on cable television (NBCSN), while the 2026 event was broadcast on network television (Fox). It also represented a 77% increase from the second race of the 2025 season. The co-location with NASCAR demonstrably expanded IndyCar’s reach.
While NASCAR still drew a larger audience with 2.841 million viewers for the Straight Talk Wireless 500, the IndyCar numbers are undeniably positive. This success has prompted discussions about making such doubleheaders a more regular occurrence.
Addressing Concerns: Is IndyCar a “Side Show”?
Despite the positive viewership numbers, some within the IndyCar community have expressed concern about being perceived as a supporting act to NASCAR. Pato O’Ward of Arrow McLaren initially voiced his frustration, stating he was “tired of IndyCar being like the support race.” He later clarified his comments, emphasizing his desire for IndyCar to establish its own strong identity.
However, IndyCar President Doug Boles believes that strategically chosen doubleheaders can benefit both series. He suggests that being the “opener” for NASCAR on a limited basis doesn’t necessarily diminish IndyCar’s standing.
Potential for Expansion: Beyond Phoenix
Talks of the doubleheader began during last year’s Brickyard 400 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Preliminary conversations have already taken place with Phoenix Raceway president Latasha Causey about a return in 2027 and with NASCAR executive vice president Ben Kennedy about future doubleheader weekends.
While Phoenix appears to be a viable location, Boles indicated a willingness to explore other oval tracks for potential partnerships. The primary challenge lies in coordinating schedules between NASCAR and IndyCar.
Driver Perspectives: A Positive Reception
Many drivers from both series have expressed enthusiasm for the concept. Alexander Rossi of Ed Carpenter Racing lauded the idea of combining different forms of motorsport on a single ticket. Josef Newgarden, after winning the Decent Ranchers 250, emphasized the value proposition for motorsport fans, suggesting that a combined weekend offers “way more value.”
Two-time NASCAR Cup champion Kyle Larson, who has also competed in the Indy 500, even suggested the possibility of future doubleheaders where IndyCar takes center stage, perhaps on a street course or road course.
The Team Penske Factor
The Phoenix weekend also highlighted the success of Team Penske, with Joey Logano securing the pole for the NASCAR race and Josef Newgarden winning the IndyCar race. David Malukas won the pole for the IndyCar race. This success occurred during the team’s 60th anniversary season, allowing Roger Penske to showcase his drivers from both series.
FAQ: Motorsport Doubleheaders
Q: Will IndyCar and NASCAR continue to hold doubleheaders?
A: Discussions are ongoing, and there’s a “mutual desire” to move forward with the idea, but no firm commitments have been made beyond 2026.
Q: What are the biggest challenges to organizing these events?
A: Coordinating schedules between the two series and finding suitable locations are the primary hurdles.
Q: Is there concern that IndyCar will be overshadowed by NASCAR?
A: Some drivers have expressed this concern, but IndyCar officials believe that strategically planned doubleheaders can benefit both series.
Q: Could these doubleheaders expand to include other racing series?
A: While not currently discussed, the success of the IndyCar-NASCAR model could potentially open the door for collaborations with other racing organizations.
Did you know? Team Penske drivers won both poles and one race in each series at Phoenix, showcasing the team’s dominance across both platforms.
Pro Tip: Motorsport fans should keep an eye on the schedules of both IndyCar and NASCAR for announcements about future doubleheader events.
What are your thoughts on the future of motorsport doubleheaders? Share your opinions in the comments below!
