Juncos Hollinger Racing: VeeKay’s Gamble and the Future of INDYCAR’s Midfield
The 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season is poised to be a pivotal one for Juncos Hollinger Racing (JHR). After a 2025 season marked by solid, if unspectacular, results, the team is banking on a fresh start with Rinus VeeKay, hoping to elevate themselves from consistent contenders to race winners. This move isn’t just about driver talent; it’s a strategic bet on ambition and a potential springboard for future growth within the increasingly competitive landscape of INDYCAR.
VeeKay’s Pursuit of a Breakout Season
Rinus VeeKay’s arrival at JHR is arguably the most compelling narrative heading into the season. After a promising 2025 with Dale Coyne Racing, where he achieved the team’s best finish in several years, VeeKay opted for a move to another ambitious, yet unproven, organization. This decision speaks volumes about his desire for a team where he can be a central figure in a championship push. He previously worked with Juncos in the USF Pro 2000 series, achieving success and building a rapport with team owner Ricardo Juncos.
The pressure is on VeeKay to deliver. A strong performance could not only secure his own future but also position JHR as an attractive option for drivers and sponsors as more top-tier seats are expected to grow available in 2027. His 2025 performance with Dale Coyne Racing, finishing 14th in the standings, demonstrates his potential, but consistency will be key.
Juncos Hollinger Racing: Building on a Foundation
JHR has steadily built a reputation for developing talent and achieving consistent results. In 2025, Conor Daly’s four top-10 finishes, including an eighth-place result at the Indianapolis 500, and a personal-best 268 championship points, highlighted the team’s progress. Daly’s oval performances were particularly noteworthy, showcasing the team’s ability to adapt to different track types. Sting Ray Robb, in his debut season with JHR, secured a ninth-place finish at Long Beach.
The team’s history extends beyond INDYCAR, with a strong record in feeder series like INDY NXT by Firestone and Indy Pro 2000. This commitment to driver development is a core tenet of the Juncos Hollinger Racing philosophy. Robb’s return for a second season with the team is a first for him in the INDYCAR SERIES, and mirrors a successful partnership with JHR in USF Pro 2000, where he won the 2020 championship.
The Midfield Challenge: Opportunities and Obstacles
JHR faces the perennial challenge of breaking into the upper echelon of INDYCAR teams. The series is dominated by established powerhouses, but the gap is closing. Teams like JHR are increasingly capable of challenging for podiums and wins, particularly on street and road courses. The key lies in maximizing resources, optimizing strategy, and consistently delivering strong performances.
The 2026 season will be a test of JHR’s ability to capitalize on its momentum and translate potential into tangible results. VeeKay’s performance will be the focal point, but Robb’s continued development will also be crucial. The team’s ability to attract and retain sponsors will also play a significant role in its long-term success.
FAQ
Q: What is Juncos Hollinger Racing’s history?
A: Founded in 1997, Juncos Hollinger Racing has a strong background in formula car racing, expanding to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES as a full-time team in recent years.
Q: Who are the drivers for Juncos Hollinger Racing in 2026?
A: Rinus VeeKay and Sting Ray Robb will be driving for Juncos Hollinger Racing in 2026.
Q: What was Conor Daly’s best result for JHR in 2025?
A: Conor Daly achieved four top-10 finishes in 2025, with an eighth-place result at the Indianapolis 500 being his best.
Q: Has Sting Ray Robb ever returned to the same INDYCAR team for a second season before?
A: No, this is the first time Robb has returned to the same INDYCAR SERIES team for a second season.
Did you recognize? Juncos Hollinger Racing has consistently improved its results in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, with Callum Ilott’s 16th-place points finish in 2023 representing the team’s best result to date.
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