The IndyCar 2026 team changes took a surprising turn as Prema Racing confirmed it will not participate in the opening races of the season. Following an ownership reshuffle within the parent Prema organization, the team faces uncertainty about its future involvement in the series. As a result, Prema Racing will miss the tripleheader to kick off the year, marking a significant shift for the NTT IndyCar Series.
Background on Prema Racing’s 2025 Performance
Prema Racing entered the 2025 season as the 11th full-time team on the grid, pushing the total to 27 entries—an unprecedented high since the Indy Racing League’s inception in 1996. Despite not having charters, they participated in every race except the Indy 500, where most other teams fielded part-time entries. Drivers Robert Shwartzman and Callum Ilott drove the No. 83 and No. 90 Chevrolets, respectively, with Shwartzman notably earning pole position at the 109th running of the Indy 500 in his rookie season.
Current IndyCar Grid and Season Outlook
With Prema Racing sidelined for now, the current lineup features 25 full-time entries, distributed across teams running either two or three cars. While some one-off entries are confirmed for the Indy 500, the absence of Prema raises concerns that this year’s race might fall short of the traditional 33-car field for the first time since 1947 if the team does not return by May. The possibility of Prema securing new sponsorship or backing remains open, but no timetable for a comeback has been announced.
Upcoming Season Coverage and Key Dates
The 2026 NTT IndyCar Series campaign is set to begin on Sunday, March 1, with live coverage from the streets of St. Petersburg, Florida. Fox will broadcast the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg starting at noon Eastern Time. Fans can follow the season through various platforms, including FuboTV trials offering full race day access.
