Momentum continues to shape the career of Marcus Armstrong, and the next step is already confirmed. Meyer Shank Racing has announced that the 25-year-old New Zealander will remain with the team in 2026, driving the No. 66 Honda. After a season marked by consistency and a breakthrough podium, Armstrong has firmly established himself as one of INDYCAR’s rising figures. The renewal signals confidence not only in his talent but also in the bond he has built with the MSR crew.
Key Highlights
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Marcus Armstrong confirmed to return with Meyer Shank Racing for 2026
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Currently driving the No. 66 Honda in his first MSR season
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Has achieved ten top-ten finishes in 2025, including a podium at Iowa Speedway
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Career-best qualifying effort matched with third at Toronto this season
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Aims to finish in the championship top ten for the first time in his career
Armstrong’s Rise with Meyer Shank Racing
Armstrong’s first season with Meyer Shank Racing has been one of progress and measured success. The New Zealander entered the 2025 campaign with expectations of growth, and he has delivered on that goal. With ten top-ten finishes already secured and a standout podium at Iowa Speedway, he has displayed both consistency and potential. The Iowa podium was a significant moment, marking the second of his INDYCAR career and underlining his adaptability on one of the series’ most challenging ovals.
Beyond race results, Armstrong’s presence in the No. 66 Honda has brought stability to MSR. His ability to build momentum through the year has put him on course to finish inside the top ten of the championship standings for the first time in his career. That achievement would represent another milestone, showing how the partnership between Armstrong and MSR has grown stronger with each race weekend.
“I’m very pleased and grateful to be back with Meyer Shank Racing and my crew for 2026. The professionalism and attention to detail is a benchmark throughout the field and we have certainly improved with time together which has been great. We’ll look to build on our momentum and work hard to climb the points standings.” – Marcus Armstrong
Team Confidence in Long-Term Growth
The commitment from Meyer Shank Racing reflects the team’s belief in Armstrong’s trajectory. His performances in 2025 have not only produced results but have also given the team confidence that he has the skill set to fight at the front of the grid. Co-owner Mike Shank emphasized the significance of Armstrong’s development over the course of the year, crediting his work ethic and adaptability.
“We’re thrilled to have Marcus back for 2026. He’s really grown a lot this season and we’re seeing that in his results as the season has gone on. His performance this year has shown that he has all the tools to fight at the front. We’re excited to continue building on this progress together.” – Mike Shank
That confidence has been bolstered by Armstrong’s qualifying pace, which has included a career-best third-place start at Toronto and a strong fourth-place grid position in St. Petersburg to open the season. The ability to secure second-row starts has shown that Armstrong can put himself in positions to contend from the very beginning of a race weekend, a key trait for any driver aiming to break into the series’ elite tier.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The extension ensures stability for both driver and team heading into the future. With two races left in the 2025 season, Armstrong and MSR have the chance to close the year on a high note, building further momentum as preparations for 2026 begin. For Armstrong, the return marks an opportunity to take another step toward becoming a consistent frontrunner in the series.
The 2026 season promises to be an important year for both parties. With Armstrong’s continued growth and MSR’s commitment to developing a competitive package, the combination is well-positioned to target stronger finishes, more podiums, and potentially race victories. The foundation has been laid; now the challenge will be to elevate from strong points finishes to consistent contention at the sharp end of the field.
News in Brief: Marcus Armstrong Returns to Meyer Shank Racing
Marcus Armstrong will return to Meyer Shank Racing for the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season, continuing with the No. 66 Honda. In his first season with the team, Armstrong has delivered ten top-ten finishes, including a podium at Iowa Speedway. He matched his career-best qualifying of third at Toronto and also secured a fourth-place grid start in St. Petersburg. Aiming for his first championship top-ten finish, Armstrong and MSR still have two races left this year.
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