James Hinchcliffe, a six-time NTT IndyCar Series winner and former Indy 500 polesitter, is set to make his NASCAR debut this weekend in St. Petersburg, Florida. After speculation about a possible NASCAR transition throughout his 11-year IndyCar career, Hinchcliffe will drive in the inaugural Craftsman Truck Series race held on the same street course slated for the 2026 IndyCar season opener the following day.
Details of Hinchcliffe’s Entry and Spire Motorsports’ Role
This Saturday, Hinchcliffe will pilot the No. 77 Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports, replacing full-time Cup driver Carson Hocevar for the Truck Series event on the 1.8-mile, 14-turn temporary street circuit. Hocevar participated in the season’s opening Truck races at Daytona International Speedway and EchoPark Speedway earlier this year. The alignment allows Hinchcliffe to gain NASCAR experience while spotlighting crossover talent during a rare weekend featuring both IndyCar and NASCAR events at the same venue.
Other Notable Open-Wheel Drivers Joining the Truck Series Race
The race will also feature four-time IndyCar champion and three-time Indianapolis 500 winner Dario Franchitti, marking his first NASCAR appearance in 18 years with TRICON Garage. Both Franchitti and Hinchcliffe have past success on this street circuit, with Hinchcliffe’s first IndyCar victory coming here in 2013. The Truck Series has never before held a street race, making this event a milestone for the series and for drivers crossing from open-wheel racing.
Hinchcliffe’s Broadcasting Career and Continued IndyCar Involvement
Since transitioning from full-time driving, Hinchcliffe has worked as an IndyCar analyst, joining NBC Sports in 2022 and remaining on air through 2024 before the broadcast rights moved to Fox. He now continues his commentary duties with Fox Sports alongside Townsend Bell and lead announcer Will Buxton, maintaining his connection to the series even as he tests the NASCAR waters behind the wheel.
Race Broadcast and Viewing Information
The OnlyBulls Green Flag 150 will air live on Fox starting at 12:00 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 28, broadcast from the streets of St. Petersburg. This event marks a significant point for Hinchcliffe as he transitions from open-wheel racing and commentary to active competition in NASCAR, providing fans with a unique crossover racing experience.
“The OnlyBulls Green Flag 150 is set to be shown live on Fox from the streets of St. Petersburg, Florida beginning at 12:00 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 28. Start a free trial of FuboTV now and catch all of the action!” — Will Buxton, Lead Announcer
