Arlington, TX – Race organizers have adjusted the start time for Sunday’s inaugural Java House Grand Prix of Arlington, moving the NTT INDYCAR SERIES race to noon Eastern Time (11 a.m. Local time) to avoid anticipated high winds. The decision, announced Saturday by INDYCAR and event officials, aims to ensure the safety of drivers and fans at the new 2.73-mile temporary street circuit.
The shift impacts the entire race day schedule. Broadcast coverage on FOX, FOX Deportes, FOX One, the FOX Sports app, and INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls will now commence at 11:30 a.m. ET (10:30 a.m. Local time). This event marks the third race of the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season and represents a significant expansion for the sport, bringing open-wheel racing to the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
Prior to the main event, a 20-minute NTT INDYCAR SERIES warmup is scheduled from 9:50-10:10 a.m. ET, with live coverage commencing on FS1, FOX One, the FOX Sports app, and INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls at 9:30 a.m. ET and continuing through 10:30 a.m. ET. The change also affects the INDY NXT by Firestone race, with live coverage now beginning at 10:30 a.m. ET on the same platforms.
The Java House Grand Prix of Arlington is a collaborative effort between Penske Entertainment, the Dallas Cowboys, and REV Entertainment, the official events partner of the Texas Rangers. The challenging 14-turn course is uniquely situated, winding around both AT&T Stadium, home of the Cowboys, and Globe Life Field, the Rangers’ ballpark.
Currently, Josef Newgarden leads the NTT INDYCAR SERIES driver standings with 78 points, closely followed by Kyle Kirkwood with 73 points, according to FOX Sports. Alex Palou currently holds the most wins with one, while David Malukas has led the most laps with 73.
The Streets of Arlington circuit presents a unique challenge for drivers, featuring a split-pit lane and a technical horseshoe section adjacent to AT&T Stadium. Qualifying results on Saturday saw Marcus Ericsson secure the top starting position, followed by Alex Palou and Pato O’Ward, as reported by FOX Sports.
The decision to move up the race start underscores the commitment of INDYCAR and event organizers to prioritize safety in the face of changing weather conditions. Fans are encouraged to check the official INDYCAR website for the latest updates and schedule information.
As the NTT INDYCAR SERIES prepares for its first race in Arlington, all eyes will be on how the drivers adapt to the new track and the adjusted schedule. The race promises to be a thrilling spectacle for motorsports enthusiasts, showcasing the speed and skill of the series’ top competitors.
What impact will the earlier start time have on driver strategies? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow racing fans!