The NTT IndyCar Series began its preseason testing on Tuesday at Phoenix Raceway, where David Malukas led the timesheets following the initial open test day. Malukas achieved a fastest lap of 20.8569 seconds, averaging 172.605 MPH, while preparing for his first season driving the #12 Team Penske car. This performance drew attention as he adapts to his new team and the demanding nature of IndyCar racing.
At 24 years old, Malukas drew comparisons between the Phoenix circuit and World Wide Technology Raceway, where he has secured two podium finishes over the past four years. This familiarity seemed to aid his confident pace throughout the session.
Top Competitors and Track Conditions
Close behind Malukas, his teammate Josef Newgarden secured second place, with Andretti Global’s Will Power completing the top three. Kyle Kirkwood took fourth position, followed by Alex Palou, who set a quick lap near the session’s end in his Chip Ganassi Racing Honda.
All 25 drivers made full use of the allotted track time, even as daylight faded. Notably, Christian Rasmussen led the pack in terms of laps run, completing an impressive 128 circuits in his #21 Ed Carpenter Racing Chevrolet.
Drivers praised the track’s smooth surface and noted how well the DW12 chassis handled the unique circuit layout. As lap times improved, many participants pushed harder in the corners to match the leading speeds. Nine drivers managed laps exceeding 170 MPH, suggesting even greater efforts could come during the next test session.
Rookies Gain Valuable Experience Amid Minor Incident
During the afternoon rookie-only session, Mick Schumacher was the first to take to the track, steadily gaining experience and completing 109 laps by day’s end. Schumacher ranked 23rd overall, on pace with other newcomers in the field.
Caio Collet experienced a minor setback approximately one hour before the session concluded when he brushed the wall at Turn 4. After exiting uninjured, his team believed Collet’s tires dropped below the apron, causing the mishap. Before this, Collet completed 51 laps, gathering useful data for AJ Foyt Racing.
Additional Details and Upcoming Test Sessions
PREMA was absent from the session as it continues to pursue a buyer for its IndyCar program, leaving some uncertainty for its future participation. The second test day, scheduled for Wednesday, will offer a longer track session and represents the final preseason opportunity to prepare before the 2026 season opener in St. Petersburg.
This first day of testing showcased promising performances, particularly from Malukas, whose pace indicates his readiness to contribute competitively with Team Penske. With drivers pushing boundaries and rookies gaining essential track time, the upcoming test promises to provide further insight into team preparations and driver form heading into the new IndyCar season.
