INDIANAPOLIS (Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026) – Actor Rudy Pankow will experience the INDYCAR SERIES Fastest Seat in Sports during the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on Sunday, March 1. This event launches the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season, showcasing top international drivers competing in the fastest open-wheel racing series on the planet.
About Rudy Pankow’s Career and Upcoming Projects
Alongside his INDYCAR participation, Pankow is preparing for the release of Universal’s feature film Reminders of Him, which hits theaters on March 13. Fans can also anticipate his roles in Hulu’s Never Change! and the rodeo-themed drama, Cowboy. He gained widespread recognition for his role as JJ on the popular Netflix series Outer Banks.
Joining an Elite Group of INDYCAR Fastest Seat Passengers
By riding shotgun in a specially modified INDYCAR SERIES car, Pankow joins a prestigious list of celebrities who have experienced this high-speed thrill. Previous passengers include Tom Brady, Simu Liu, Jon Bon Jovi, Lady Gaga, and Channing Tatum, all of whom have taken part in this exhilarating stint that leads the field to green at major INDYCAR events.
Broadcast and Series Details for the 2026 Season
Coverage for the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg starts at noon Eastern Time and will be broadcast on FOX, FOX One, FOX Deportes, the FOX Sports app, and the INDYCAR Radio Network. The NTT INDYCAR SERIES remains North America’s premier open-wheel racing championship with drivers reaching speeds exceeding 200 mph on a variety of challenging oval, road, and street circuits.
Significance of the INDYCAR SERIES Fastest Seat and Upcoming Events
Rudy Pankow’s participation in the Fastest Seat highlights the crossover appeal of INDYCAR, connecting popular culture to thrilling motorsport action. The opening race in St. Petersburg signals the start of an energetic season for fans and drivers alike, as the series continues its legacy of speed and competitive excitement. Fans can expect a full calendar of intense races throughout North America, featuring the world’s best drivers pushing the limits of speed and skill.
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