2026 live
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The IndyCar Series is the top level of American open-wheel racing. Drivers strap into single-seat, open-cockpit cars that top 200 mph on the fastest ovals. Then they switch to tight street circuits and flowing road courses, where braking and car control decide the day. That variety is the heart of the appeal, because a champion has to master every kind of track. Add close, wheel-to-wheel racing and a field of drivers from around the world, and you get a series that rewards skill over gimmicks.
Open-wheel racing in America stretches back to the first Indianapolis 500 in 1911, and that race still sits at the center of the sport. The modern IndyCar Series launched in 1996 as the Indy Racing League, during a split with the rival CART series. The two sides reunified in 2008. Names like Foyt, Andretti, Unser and Mears built the legend, and each new generation of drivers adds fresh chapters at the Brickyard.
How it works
- A race weekend usually runs practice, then qualifying to set the starting grid, then the race itself.
- Races are set by distance or lap count, and the track type changes the feel: ovals, road courses and street circuits all appear on the schedule.
- Pit stops for fuel and tires drive strategy. A well-timed stop, or a gamble on staying out, can flip the running order.
- Caution flags bunch up the field and reset the race, so a leader's gap can vanish in a moment. Drivers can also use push-to-pass for a short burst of extra power.
2026 schedule
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Showing the most recent and next events. Full calendar: official site.
Fan tips
- Bring quality ear protection if you go to a race. Open-wheel cars are loud, and it's a long day.
- Learn the difference between oval and road/street racing. The skills, setups and strategies change a lot, and it makes the broadcast more fun.
- Check the live panel on this page for current schedules, results and standings before you plan your viewing or travel.
- Arrive early at the track to catch practice and support races, and walk the grounds. You'll see the cars up close and get a feel for each venue.
Legends of IndyCar
Books, biographies and collectibles about the series' greats.
FAQ
What is the Indianapolis 500?
It's the most famous race on the IndyCar calendar, held at Indianapolis Motor Speedway since 1911. Drivers run 200 laps of the 2.5-mile oval, covering 500 miles. It has traditionally been run on Memorial Day weekend.
How is IndyCar different from Formula 1?
Both use open-wheel, single-seat cars, but IndyCar mixes ovals with road and street courses, while F1 races only on road and street circuits. IndyCar is also built around a largely common chassis, which keeps the competition close and puts the focus on drivers and teams.
Is IndyCar the same as NASCAR?
No. IndyCar uses lightweight open-wheel, open-cockpit cars, while NASCAR runs heavier stock-car-style machines with full bodywork. The two are separate series with different cars, rules and schedules, though both race on ovals.
Where can I find current IndyCar results and schedules?
This hub focuses on the history and basics of the series. For up-to-date race calendars, standings and results, use the live data shown elsewhere on this page.