For the 2026 season, Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) presents a diverse group of drivers in its Indy NXT team, featuring a mixture of experience levels. Returning drivers Niels Koolen and Bryce Aron will join newcomers James Roe and Carson Etter, who represent contrasting stages in their Indy NXT careers. While Roe brings four years of experience in IndyCar’s feeder series, Etter enters as the sole rookie, aiming to make his mark with the renowned team.
The 23-year-old Californian Etter grew up admiring Formula 1 and now finds himself racing for the same iconic organization where his hero, six-time IndyCar champion Scott Dixon, competes. This connection carries meaningful weight as he embarks on his rookie season in the American open-wheel racing ladder.
Carson Etter on Learning From Seasoned Teammates
During Indy NXT’s media days earlier this year, Etter shared insights about his racing background and personal journey. He expressed humility and openness, introducing himself candidly as he spoke with journalists. When asked about his role as the least experienced driver on CGR’s roster, Etter highlighted the benefits of learning from veteran teammates.
“It’s honestly good for me, and I like that I am around a group of experienced drivers. They obviously know what to expect in terms of where we’re gonna be at, how the car’s gonna play out over the long duration. So being able to learn off guys that are very experienced is something that I value high because of my inexperience. So being able to learn off what they’re doing and apply it to my own racing is something that I’d like a lot.”
? Carson Etter, Rookie Driver
Etter balances his racing career with studies at Arizona State University while rapidly advancing through junior racing categories. His past experience includes competing in USF Junior and US F2000 championships with DC Autosport during 2023 and 2024, and later signing with Exclusive Autosport for the 2025 season. Although his results have been modest, including a sixth-place finish in Portland, his racecraft has attracted the attention of CGR.
Setting Ambitious Goals for the Rookie Campaign
For his debut Indy NXT season, Etter aims to consistently finish within the top 10 in races, aspiring to secure a top 10 spot in the overall championship by year’s end. Given the performances of CGR’s experienced drivers last season—Niels Koolen finishing eighth and Bryce Aron just outside the top 10—Etter’s target appears attainable with steady progress.
“The target I’ve set for myself in this rookie season is just to be fighting for that Top 10, anywhere inside the Top 10,” Etter told Sportskeeda. “If I’m to be able to do that, I’m gonna be pretty happy for that.”
? Carson Etter, Rookie Driver
Chip Ganassi Racing’s 2025 campaign marked its return to Indy NXT after nearly two decades, showing promising results despite limited time in the series. The team’s dominant history in IndyCar, led by drivers such as Alex Palou, a four-time champion and the 2025 Indy 500 winner, provides a solid foundation as they nurture new talent in Indy NXT.
Etter’s Progress and Potential Amid a Competitive Field
Carson Etter’s racing trajectory blends off-road and open-wheel experience, reflecting a versatile skill set. His commitment to education and growth within the sport suggests a balanced approach to achieving success. His rookie year with Chip Ganassi Racing will be an important test of his ability to adapt and improve against more seasoned drivers.
With the support of accomplished teammates like Niels Koolen, Bryce Aron, and James Roe, and inspiration from racing legend Scott Dixon, Etter’s season is poised to be a critical step in shaping his professional career. The challenges ahead remain significant, but his determination and cautious optimism provide a hopeful outlook for his impact in Indy NXT and beyond.
