Romain Grosjean has appeared at the IndyCar Sebring test with Dale Coyne Racing (DCR), fueling speculation that he may fill the team’s final available seat for the 2026 season. Although the French driver’s presence has stirred widespread rumors, no official contract or announcement has yet been confirmed by DCR or Grosjean himself.
After surviving a fiery crash in Formula 1 at the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix, Grosjean transitioned to IndyCar, joining the series and racing with various teams, including Dale Coyne Racing in his rookie season. Following the 2024 campaign, Grosjean was released by Juncos Hollinger Racing, who signed Sting Ray Robb and Conor Daly for 2025. Unable to secure a full-time ride, Grosjean then served as a reserve driver with PREMA Racing, while also competing for Lamborghini’s IMSA program until their split in 2025.
Talks about Grosjean joining Dale Coyne Racing alongside Dennis Hauger began circulating in December, increasing after he was noticed attending IndyCar’s preseason interviews in January. While insiders hint that Grosjean has signed with DCR, the team has remained silent on any official deals. His participation in the two-day IndyCar open test at Sebring International Raceway on February 9 and 10 adds weight to the speculation.
Background on Dale Coyne Racing’s Driver Lineup Changes
Dale Coyne Racing faced its own reshuffling ahead of the 2026 season. The team parted ways with Rinus VeeKay, who moved to Juncos Hollinger Racing. DCR then announced Dennis Hauger, the reigning 2025 Indy NXT champion, as VeeKay’s successor. Meanwhile, Jacob Abel, after a challenging rookie year, was reportedly in talks for DCR’s second seat before Grosjean’s potential involvement stirred the paddock.
The Sebring test is one of only two open IndyCar assessments before the new season begins and attracts nearly all teams except PREMA. Grosjean’s appearance at this pivotal event suggests he remains a strong candidate for the final DCR seat, though official confirmation remains pending.
Conor Daly Expresses Uncertainty About Grosjean’s Status at Dale Coyne Racing
IndyCar veteran Conor Daly addressed the situation on the Speed Street podcast, responding to Grosjean’s preseason presence and the swirling rumors of his signing with DCR. Daly emphasized that, despite appearances, no definitive deal has been finalized yet. He said,
“You saw a vision, a sight of the Dale Coyne Racing second driver, which is a funny story, but obviously it was Romain Grosjean who was there as the TBA. None of the media were allowed to talk to him. Technically, it seems like there is not a deal done there yet. So, it’s semi-mysterious, but it’s also very obvious.” ?Conor Daly, IndyCar driver
“But it was just fun to see people use TBA. I don’t know if it’s Dale Coyne’s favorite thing to do is to be last-minute on everything, but it’s been interesting how it worked out,” he added. ?Conor Daly, IndyCar driver
Grosjean’s return to Dale Coyne Racing, where he began his IndyCar career before moving to Andretti Global, would mark a return to familiar surroundings and could boost his chances of securing a full-time seat for 2026. However, until official word arrives, the situation remains clouded with uncertainty, reflecting the tense and unpredictable nature of IndyCar’s driver market.
Implications of Grosjean’s Potential Signing and What to Watch Next
If Grosjean finalizes a contract with Dale Coyne Racing, the move would provide him with an opportunity to reestablish himself in a competitive environment, especially alongside a promising teammate like Dennis Hauger. For DCR, adding an experienced driver like Grosjean could strengthen their lineup and enhance their performance prospects for the upcoming season.
Conversely, if no deal materializes, Grosjean’s future in IndyCar may hinge on other reserve roles or IMSA programs, while DCR might return focus to drivers like Jacob Abel or explore additional candidates. Fans and analysts will closely monitor forthcoming announcements as the 2026 season approaches and pre-season tests continue.
En nu tagt Dennis Hauger op Instagram Romain Grosjean.
Het wachten is op een officiële bevestiging, zo lijkt het. #INDYCAR pic.twitter.com/yaWZCi62xG
— Jeroen Demmendaal (@mrdemmendaal) February 9, 2026
