IndyCar’s Sebring Test: Armstrong Signals Championship Potential, Grosjean Eyes Return
Sebring International Raceway hosted a private INDYCAR SERIES test on February 10-11, offering a first glimpse into team preparations for the 2026 season. While not an official NTT INDYCAR SERIES Open Test, the event provided valuable data points as teams geared up for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on March 1.
Honda Dominates Session Times
Across all four testing sessions, Honda-powered drivers consistently topped the time sheets. Alex Palou of Chip Ganassi Racing led the first session with a lap time of 52.626 seconds. Marcus Armstrong of Meyer Shank Racing and Kyle Kirkwood of Andretti Global also secured fastest times in subsequent sessions, showcasing Honda’s strong performance.
Armstrong’s Ascent: A Championship Contender?
Marcus Armstrong continued his impressive trajectory, building on a breakthrough 2025 season where he finished eighth in the championship. He posted the fastest overall lap time of the test – 52.373 seconds – and consistently demonstrated pace throughout both days. This performance suggests Armstrong could be a serious contender for the 2026 championship.
Palou Remains a Force
Four-time series champion Alex Palou reaffirmed his position as a top driver, setting the pace in the opening session. While he didn’t replicate that speed in the second session, finishing fifth with a time of 52.874, his consistent performance underscores his continued dominance.
Grosjean’s Potential Return with Dale Coyne Racing
Romain Grosjean turned laps for Dale Coyne Racing, potentially signaling a return to the team he debuted with in 2021. The veteran driver, known as “The Phoenix” after surviving a severe crash in Formula One, showed improvement throughout the test, reducing his lap time from 53.798 to 53.220. He is currently vying for the remaining seat alongside rookie Dennis Hauger.
Ride Swaps and New Beginnings
The offseason’s most talked-about driver moves – David Malukas to Team Penske and Will Power to Andretti Global – were also on display. Malukas was initially cautious, while Power showed improvement over the two days, ultimately finishing third in his final session.
Rookie Watch: Collet Leads the Pack
Caio Collet of AJ Foyt Racing emerged as the fastest rookie during the test, posting a lap time of 52.891 seconds. Dennis Hauger, the 2025 INDY NXT champion, and Formula One veteran Mick Schumacher also participated, gaining valuable experience as they prepare for their first full INDYCAR SERIES season. Hunter McElrea, despite not having a confirmed seat, posted the quickest rookie time on Tuesday morning.
Next Stop: Phoenix Raceway
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES will continue testing with the Unser INDYCAR Open Test at Phoenix Raceway on February 17-18. This test will focus on oval racing, as Phoenix returns to the series schedule for the first time since 2018.
FAQ
Q: Was the Sebring test an official INDYCAR SERIES test?
A: No, it was a private team test, but it still provided valuable insights into team preparations.
Q: Who was the fastest driver overall at Sebring?
A: Marcus Armstrong of Meyer Shank Racing, with a lap time of 52.373 seconds.
Q: Is Romain Grosjean returning to INDYCAR?
A: He tested with Dale Coyne Racing and is a candidate for the remaining seat on the team.
Q: When is the next INDYCAR SERIES test?
A: The Unser INDYCAR Open Test at Phoenix Raceway on February 17-18.
Did you know? Sebring’s bumpy road course is often used as a testing ground for teams preparing for street circuit races like the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Marcus Armstrong. His performance at Sebring suggests he’s poised for a breakout season.
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