Phoenix Raceway is buzzing with activity this week as the NTT INDYCAR SERIES prepares for the 2026 season with the Unser INDYCAR Open Test. All 25 drivers are scheduled to participate in the two-day event, providing a crucial opportunity to fine-tune their setups and gain valuable track time before the season opener. The test serves as a final dress rehearsal for teams and drivers alike, with the historic 1.022-mile oval presenting a unique challenge.
The open test isn’t just about on-track performance; it’s similarly a tribute to the legendary Unser family, deeply rooted in motorsports history. This year’s event specifically honors their legacy, adding a special significance to the proceedings. The 2026 season is set to kick off with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on March 1, followed by the Good Ranchers 250 at Phoenix on March 7 – marking the series’ return to the Arizona track for the first time since 2018.
Testing is scheduled from 2-7 p.m. ET today, February 17, and will continue Wednesday, February 18, with sessions from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. ET (9 a.m.-noon) and 3:30-6:30 p.m. ET (1:30-4:30 p.m.). Fans in the Phoenix area have the opportunity to witness the action firsthand on Wednesday, with the sessions open to the public and free of charge. An autograph session with the drivers is planned for 2:45 p.m. ET (12:45 p.m. MT) on Wednesday.
Phoenix Raceway Welcomes Back INDYCAR
The return of the INDYCAR SERIES to Phoenix Raceway after a hiatus of several years is generating excitement among fans and teams. The Good Ranchers 250, scheduled for Saturday, March 7, promises to be a thrilling event, showcasing the speed and skill of the drivers on the challenging oval. Phoenix Raceway recently announced the race title sponsorship with Good Ranchers, further solidifying the event’s place on the INDYCAR calendar. FOX Sports reported on the sponsorship announcement.
Marcus Armstrong, an INDYCAR driver, expressed his enthusiasm for the addition of Phoenix to the schedule, stating it’s “good to have a new venue” on the calendar. INDYCAR.com highlighted Armstrong’s comments.
Testing Intensifies as Season Approaches
The Phoenix test is part of a broader period of intensified testing across the NTT INDYCAR SERIES as teams prepare for the 2026 season. INDYCAR.com reports that testing is “kicking into overdrive” as teams finalize their preparations. Live timing for the test is available online, allowing fans to follow the on-track action in real-time. Updates and a comprehensive report will be published on INDYCAR.com later this evening and Wednesday evening.
The Unser INDYCAR Open Test provides a valuable opportunity for teams to gather data, assess car performance, and refine their strategies ahead of the season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. The event also allows drivers to familiarize themselves with the Phoenix Raceway oval, which presents a unique set of challenges due to its flat corners and high speeds.
As the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season draws closer, all eyes are on Phoenix Raceway, where teams are putting in the final work to ensure they are ready to compete at the highest level. The return to Phoenix promises to be a highlight of the season, offering fans a thrilling spectacle of speed, skill, and competition.
Stay tuned to INDYCAR.com for complete coverage of the Unser INDYCAR Open Test and for the latest updates on the upcoming 2026 season. Share your thoughts on the test and the upcoming season in the comments below!
