IndyCar champions Dario Franchitti and James Hinchcliffe are set to bring their open-wheel expertise into the NASCAR Truck Series this Saturday at the OnlyBulls Green Flag 150 in St. Petersburg. As part of the 2026 NASCAR Truck Series crossover, this race marks the first-ever street circuit event for the series, unfolding on the tight, challenging layout of the iconic Indy road course.
The inclusion of notable IndyCar talent in this unique setting has generated significant anticipation, highlighting the event’s blend of history and high-powered racing on an unforgiving street circuit. The harsh concrete walls and narrow turns present a stark contrast to traditional oval or road-course racing, promising a demanding test for all competitors.
Franchitti and Hinchcliffe Take on Street Circuit Challenges in Their Truck Debut
The St. Petersburg event represents the initial of two street race appearances scheduled by the series for 2026, with a follow-up at Naval Base Coronado later in the season. The 1.8-mile, 14-turn street course offers no room for error, demanding precision and control from its drivers against unforgiving barriers instead of gravel or grass run-off.
A strong field of 36 trucks is slated to compete, providing one of the most competitive and distinctive race weekends in NASCAR Truck Series history. Among them, Franchitti is driving the No. 1 Toyota truck for TRICON Garage. The veteran Scotsman, celebrated for four IndyCar championships and three Indianapolis 500 victories, is renowned for his skill on technical circuits—a background that should provide an edge on the narrow streets of St. Pete.
Hinchcliffe, piloting the No. 77 Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports, is equally adept at navigating tight urban tracks. The Canadian driver, known for his charismatic presence in IndyCar, faces the added challenge of adapting his style to the heavier, less aerodynamic Truck Series vehicles in a setting where aggressive precision is key.
Experienced Special Guests and Seasoned Full-Timers Create a Competitive Field
Adding to the crossover intrigue, Colin Braun brings his diverse racing experience, including sports cars and open-wheel cars, to the No. 25 RAM for Kaulig Racing. His versatile skill set makes him a potential dark horse in the race, which will test not only speed but also racecraft and patience.
The event also features established NASCAR Truck Series regulars such as Grant Enfinger, Ben Rhodes, and Ty Majeski, ensuring the experienced full-time competitors will vigorously defend their turf against the open-wheel challengers. Rising talents like Chandler Smith and Christian Eckes bolster the roster, enriching the grid with youthful ambition and fresh competition.
One notable absence is Kyle Busch, last weekend’s winner at EchoPark Speedway, who will not participate at St. Petersburg. However, his winning truck returns with Connor Mosack behind the wheel, maintaining that team’s competitiveness and presence in the race.
A Historic NASCAR Event with High Stakes on a Unique Street Circuit
This landmark race marks a significant evolution for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, introducing the challenge of a downtown street course—a first in the series’ history. The unique layout is expected to produce chaotic restarts, aggressive braking zones, and strategic decisions that may influence the race outcome more than sheer velocity. This environment suits drivers comfortable with high-pressure driving conditions, where a single mistake can result in instant consequences.
The competition creates a rare spectacle as drivers with open-wheel pedigrees confront stock truck racing on unfamiliar ground, forcing adaptations in both strategy and technique. Fans eagerly anticipate observing whether Franchitti’s measured precision, Hinchcliffe’s dynamic skill, or the tenacity of Truck Series full-timers will prevail in this novel battleground.
All eyes will be on the St. Petersburg circuit this weekend, as the green flag drops on a race that promises to reshape expectations and push the boundaries of crossover motorsport competition.
“Street racing is his forte, and his presence alone adds an unpredictable edge to Saturday’s race.” ?Source
“The crossover doesn’t stop there. Colin Braun, a versatile racer with experience across sports cars and open-wheel machinery, joins Kaulig Racing in the No. 25 RAM. His adaptability could make him a dark horse in a race that rewards patience as much as aggression.” ?Source
There are 36 drivers on the preliminary entry list for Saturday's NASCAR Truck Series event at @GPSTPETE.
NOTABLES: 1-Franchitti, 2-Fartuch, 4-Maier, 5-Andretti, 7-TBA, 22-Lee, 25-Braun, 42-Reif, 45-Lewis, 56-Hill, 62-Slimp, 69-White, 76-Nicholson, 77-Hinchcliffe#NASCAR pic.twitter.com/lay5NgEbtH
— Joseph Srigley (@joe_srigley) February 23, 2026
