INDYCAR Roars into 2026: FOX Sports Partnership Fuels Growth and Innovation
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is gearing up for an exciting 2026 season, bolstered by a robust broadcast partnership with FOX Sports. Year two of this collaboration promises expanded coverage, innovative technology, and a schedule packed with thrilling races, including the historic 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500 and a groundbreaking event in Washington D.C.
A 27% Viewership Surge: The Power of the FOX Partnership
The inaugural season of INDYCAR on FOX in 2025 delivered impressive results, boasting a 27% year-over-year increase in viewership. This surge marks the sport’s most-watched season in 17 years, demonstrating the power of network television exposure. The 2026 schedule will feature a record-tying 19 network windows, with all 17 races broadcast on FOX, FOX One, and available via the FOX Sports app.
Familiar Faces and Fresh Voices in the Broadcast Booth
Fans can expect a familiar and talented broadcast team. Will Buxton will return as the play-by-play announcer, alongside analysts James Hinchcliffe and Townsend Bell. Pit lane reporting will be handled by Jack Harvey, Georgia Henneberry, and Kevin Lee. Adding to the team’s expertise, Jamie Little joins for the INDYCAR/NASCAR “Desert Double” in Phoenix and the Indianapolis 500.
Tech Innovations Enhance the Viewing Experience
FOX Sports is committed to delivering a cutting-edge viewing experience. The network will continue to invest in technologies like Racing Force Driver’s Eye, providing viewers with immersive, in-car perspectives from six cars at each race. High-speed aerial drones from Beverly Hills Aerials and augmented reality-driven graphics will further enhance the broadcast.
NASCAR and INDYCAR: A Shared Track, A Wider Audience
The 2026 season will see NTT INDYCAR SERIES and NASCAR sharing the track at select events, including St. Petersburg and Phoenix. This co-promotion aims to attract a broader audience and capitalize on the synergy between the two popular motorsports series. The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series will race at St. Petersburg on February 28th, preceding the INDYCAR race on March 1st.
Expanding Language Reach with FOX Deportes
FOX Deportes will provide exclusive Spanish-language coverage of key races, including the season opener in St. Petersburg, the Indianapolis 500, and the season finale at Laguna Seca. Tony Rivera will lead the play-by-play commentary, with Jessi Losada providing analysis.
New Races and Historic Venues
The 2026 schedule introduces the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington, a new street race around AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field in Texas. The season likewise includes the inaugural Freedom 250 Grand Prix on the National Mall in Washington D.C., marking a return to racing on the Mall for the first time since 1801.
2026 Season Key Dates
- Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg: Sunday, March 1 (12:00 PM ET, FOX & FOX Deportes)
- NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Race (St. Petersburg): Saturday, February 28 (12:00 PM ET, FOX)
- Good Ranchers 250 (Phoenix): Saturday, March 7 (3:00 PM ET, FOX)
- Java House Grand Prix of Arlington: Sunday, March 15 (12:30 PM ET, FOX)
- 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500: Sunday, May 24
Family Ties on the Track
Adding a personal touch to the racing action, James Hinchcliffe will compete in the NASCAR Trucks race at St. Petersburg, driving the Spire Motorsports No. 77. Jackson Lee, son of FOX pit reporter Kevin Lee, will also participate, racing in the No. 22 Team Reaume entry.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where can I watch the 2026 INDYCAR season? All 17 races will be broadcast on FOX, FOX One, and available on the FOX Sports app.
- Will there be Spanish-language coverage? Yes, FOX Deportes will provide exclusive Spanish-language coverage of select races.
- What new races are on the 2026 schedule? The Java House Grand Prix of Arlington and the Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington D.C. Are new additions.
Explore the full 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES schedule here.
