F1 | Mick Schumacher set for new adventure with 2026 IndyCar debut
Last week we reported Mick Schumacher’s departure from the Alpine WEC program. Just minutes ago, the German driver finally revealed his next destination.
In 2026, Mick Schumacher will head to the United States to join Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, making his debut in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. This marks a significant change of direction in his racing career.
Although Mick Schumacher is no stranger to street circuits, which he has already tackled in Formula 1, in 2026 he will also gain experience on ovals, as six of the 17 races in the 2026 INDYCAR SERIES will take place on this type of track, including the 110th Indianapolis 500 on May 24. For this reason, RLL is planning an oval test with the German driver in the near future.
The former Ferrari junior will compete in the Honda-powered No. 47 car, completing the team lineup for the entire 2026 season alongside Graham Rahal and the 2025 INDYCAR Rookie of the Year, Louis Foster. The number he has chosen carries symbolic significance, as a tribute to his father and family.
His first outing in the new car will be at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on March 1.
Following the announcement, Mick Schumacher said: “I am pleased to confirm today that next year I will compete in the INDYCAR SERIES with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, participating in the full season. With a background in both F1 and endurance racing and having competed in various motorsport series over the years, I have gained knowledge and skills that I am confident will help create a strong partnership. RLL prepared me very well during testing, and I am sure that together we can achieve great things.”
“I was immediately excited by the car and the American style of motorsport, which feels purer and more direct, and that aspect particularly appeals to me. Naturally, I am curious to gain new experiences and always interested in broadening my horizons. For me, this is the start of a new journey, and I can’t wait for the season to begin.”
Bobby Rahal, co-owner of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, added: “I think I speak for everyone at RLL when I say how thrilled we are to welcome Mick to the team and to INDYCAR. His test with us on the IMS road course was outstanding: he impressed every single team member. Everyone left that session determined to do everything possible to bring Mick into our program. We are thrilled he has chosen to join us and can’t wait to get to work.”
David Letterman, co-owner of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, commented: “I am delighted to welcome Mick Schumacher to the RLL family, a young driver who has raced against some of the greatest drivers in the world. With Graham Rahal, Louis Foster, and now Mick, the future is limitless. I am very excited for the 2026 season. I am still waiting for my seat to be fitted.”
Mike Lanigan, co-owner of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, also expressed excitement about the new addition: “What a great acquisition for our team! Mick has the skills and experience that will help improve our overall competitiveness in one of the most competitive racing series in the world. Welcome aboard, Mick!”
Finally, Jay Frye, President of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, concluded: “Opportunities like this are rare, and we couldn’t be more excited to see everything come together. Mick is an exceptional talent on track and an outstanding young man off track. We are very proud to have Mick as part of the RLL family.”
From the streets of Monaco to the banking of Indianapolis – Mick Schumacher’s American adventure is officially on.
Leave a Reply