Dale Coyne Racing announced on September 23 that Dennis Hauger, the reigning INDY NXT by Firestone champion, will compete in the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season driving one of the team’s Honda-powered cars. Additionally, the team revealed a new technical partnership with Andretti Global for that season. This marks a major step for Hauger Indycar 2026 ambitions as he prepares to make his rookie debut in the series.
Hauger’s Accomplishments Leading to IndyCar Opportunity
At 22 years old, Norwegian driver Dennis Hauger achieved a remarkable rookie season in INDY NXT by Firestone in 2025 with Andretti Global. His campaign included six victories, five other podium finishes, 13 top-10 results, and seven pole positions in 14 races. Hauger secured the championship title before the season ended, clinching it at the Milwaukee Mile’s penultimate race. Prior to racing in North America, Hauger progressed through Europe’s motorsport ranks, winning the Italian F4 Championship in 2019 and the FIA Formula 3 Championship in 2021. He also recorded five wins and 13 podiums over three seasons competing in FIA Formula 2 from 2022 to 2024.
Statements from Dennis Hauger and Team Leadership
I’m excited to be joining Dale Coyne Racing for my rookie INDYCAR season,
Hauger expressed.
The progress the team has shown this year is really impressive, and it’s an honor to take my place on the grid with them in 2026. I want to thank Dale Coyne and everyone at the team for putting their trust in me.
He also highlighted the importance of familiar support, adding,
It’ll also be nice to see some familiar faces through the team’s technical partnership with Andretti Global. They’ve been a big part of my success since making the switch, so having their involvement in another rookie season for me will be great. I’m looking forward to contributing and starting this next chapter together.
Team owner Dale Coyne reflected on the partnership by stating,
This is a great opportunity for us here at DCR to bring on a talented driver and gain a strong technical partner in Andretti Global,
and gave credit to Andretti Global’s Dan Towriss:
Thanks to Dan (Towriss, Andretti Global team partner) and his belief in our sport and his dedication to elevating Dennis to the top of the ladder.
Upcoming Activities and What to Expect in 2026
Dennis Hauger is set to participate in offseason testing with Dale Coyne Racing at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course as he prepares for the 2026 season. His official on-track debut is scheduled for March 1 at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, marking the start of his rookie year in the INDYCAR SERIES. This collaboration between Hauger, Dale Coyne Racing, and Andretti Global promises a dynamic addition to the 2026 IndyCar field, signaling exciting competition ahead.
