Vital IndyCar’s Dates

In mid-2025, IndyCar organizers found themselves deep in negotiations and assessments, aiming to finalize a compelling 2026 season. Roger Penske’s leadership and Mark Miles’ vision drove ongoing talks as officials weighed venue logistics, contract extensions, and market strategies. The series appeared set for a 17-race format, though a range between 16 and 18 remained in play.

Among the developments, Texas’ Arlington venue stood out as a promising addition, while Thermal and Iowa’s futures hovered in uncertainty. A possible return to Mexico also sparked interest. Each decision hinged on aligning competitive balance with business value. Tracks like Mid-Ohio and Laguna Seca retained strong positions, but behind the scenes, executives were recalibrating deals and expectations. The 2026 IndyCar calendar was evolving not just to fill dates—but to shape a season of greater reach and resonance. 

Arlington, Texas is emerging as a strong candidate for the 2026 IndyCar schedule. With the area’s robust infrastructure and a deep-rooted motorsport culture, the proposed street race near Globe Life Field has gained internal support. IndyCar leadership and local officials have been in productive discussions, eyeing the economic and promotional boost a new market could bring. If finalized, Arlington would join the calendar as a significant new addition in place of the now-uncertain Thermal event.

Roger Penske and Mark Miles have hinted at positive momentum behind the scenes. The race would target early April, a slot formerly occupied by Texas Motor Speedway. Though official confirmation is pending, Arlington is being positioned not as a temporary experiment but as a strategic pivot in IndyCar’s long-term calendar evolution.

While Arlington gains attention, Iowa Speedway’s future remains unclear. The Newton, Iowa track, known for exciting oval racing, had its contract extended through 2024 and 2025, but no firm commitment exists for 2026. Penske Entertainment and local partners had invested significantly in promoting the event, including a major concert series, yet scheduling complexity and broadcast windows could affect its return.

Internal deliberations suggest IndyCar is weighing how many ovals to retain and where they best fit. Iowa’s fan engagement has been strong, but logistical hurdles and competing race options mean its slot isn't guaranteed. The decision will likely depend on broader strategic goals, including the balance between traditional venues and new-market entries.

IndyCar’s potential return to Mexico City remains an active discussion. The idea has been circulating for over a year, with momentum driven by interest in re-establishing an international race south of the U.S. border. Although no agreement has been finalized, the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez circuit remains a preferred option should talks advance.

Series executives have emphasized that entering new international markets must align with long-term growth strategies and fan engagement. Logistical demands, cost structures, and local support are key variables still being assessed. The Mexico City round, if approved, would likely be positioned near the start or end of the season to streamline operations.

After debuting as a non-points event in 2024, the Thermal Club appears to be on its way out of the 2026 IndyCar schedule. Despite its upscale venue and private backing, the format failed to resonate with fans and stakeholders in the long term. Feedback from within the paddock pointed to limited spectator access and unclear value to the championship.

With the calendar tightening and demand for competitive races growing, series leadership is expected to drop the event. Thermal’s exit would free up a spring calendar slot—one that Arlington is now well-positioned to take. This change reflects a wider shift in IndyCar’s priorities, moving away from exhibition-style showcases in favor of race weekends that deliver both competition and reach.

While several venues remain uncertain, others appear securely positioned on the 2026 IndyCar calendar. Mid-Ohio, Laguna Seca, Road America, and St. Petersburg are all expected to return, continuing their established roles in the series. These tracks not only offer strong fan bases but also provide consistent logistical and promotional benefits.

Additionally, IndyCar plans to maintain a balanced mix of circuits—ovals, street courses, and permanent road tracks. This consistency supports competitive diversity while anchoring the season around trusted events. As negotiations progress, these core venues serve as the calendar’s foundation while new additions and subtractions take shape.

The 2026 IndyCar schedule is moving toward a final structure centered around 17 races, balancing legacy circuits with emerging venues. While Arlington looks set to join the lineup and Thermal likely exits, questions remain around Iowa and Mexico City. Each decision reflects broader strategic priorities—audience engagement, venue viability, and commercial alignment.

As plans solidify, fans can expect a calendar that upholds tradition while cautiously exploring new directions. With leadership focused on long-term growth, the upcoming season will aim to elevate competition and expand IndyCar’s reach across North America and beyond.