INDYCAR in 2026: How to Watch, Key Drivers, and the Season Ahead
The 2026 INDYCAR season is underway, kicking off with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. For fans eager to follow the action, here’s a comprehensive guide to watching races, understanding the key players, and what to expect throughout the season.
Where to Catch the Races: Your Viewing Options
FOX Sports is the exclusive broadcast partner for INDYCAR in 2026, meaning every race will be broadcast live on the network. Fans can also stream races live on FOX One, the FOX Sports App, and the FOX Sports website. For those who’ve cut the cord, several live-streaming services carry FOX, including YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, and fuboTV.
Don’t have a cable subscription? An antenna can also provide access to your local FOX station, provided you’re in a good reception area. The Federal Communications Commission TV reception maps can help you determine signal strength in your location.
Alex Palou: The Driver to Watch
All eyes are on Alex Palou, who continues to demonstrate dominance after securing championships in 2021, 2023, 2024, and 2025. He started the 2026 season strong with a win at the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.
Phoenix Raceway and Beyond: The 2026 Schedule
The Good Ranchers 250 at Phoenix Raceway is set to begin at 3 p.m. ET on FOX. Looking ahead, the third race of the season, the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington, will take place on Sunday, March 15 at 12:30 p.m. ET, also on FOX and FOX One. A complete schedule is available on the 2026 INDYCAR schedule page.
A Return to Phoenix
Phoenix Raceway has a history with INDYCAR, but races haven’t been consistent in recent years. The last time the series raced at the one-mile desert track was in 2018, with Josef Newgarden taking the victory. Since 2005, INDYCAR has only raced at Phoenix three times – in 2016, 2017, and 2018.
Stay Updated: Highlights and More
Missed a race? FOX Sports offers highlights and the biggest moments from each event on their website. You can find them here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I stream INDYCAR races?
A: You can stream races live on the FOX Sports website, FOX One, and the FOX Sports App.
Q: Who won the first INDYCAR race of 2026?
A: Alex Palou won the 2026 season-opening Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.
Q: When is the next INDYCAR race?
A: The next race is the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington on Sunday, March 15 at 12:30 p.m. ET on FOX and FOX One.
Stay tuned to FOX Sports for continued coverage of the 2026 INDYCAR season!
Keep reading