The NTT IndyCar Series began its 2026 season on Friday afternoon with the opening practice session held on the streets of St. Petersburg. Twenty-five drivers took to the track to fine-tune their setups under looming rain threats, though the showers stayed offshore. After 90 minutes of intense running, Scott McLaughlin, last year’s polesitter, set the pace with a fastest lap of 1:10.1020.
Top Contenders and Early Surprises on the Circuit
McLaughlin demonstrated he retained his speed and comfort on St. Petersburg’s challenging layout. Felix Rosenqvist closely followed, finishing just 0.064 seconds behind the Kiwi star. Kyle Kirkwood secured third place, while Kyffin Simpson and Marcus Ericsson rounded out four of the top five positions for Honda-powered cars.
All drivers struggled with rear-wheel traction, experiencing oversteer exiting almost every corner. As the session progressed and more Firestone rubber was laid down, this issue eased but still required careful throttle management to prevent crashes.
David Malukas started strongly but ended ninth, marking a solid effort as he continues to establish himself in the iconic #12 Team Penske entry. Mick Schumacher made his official IndyCar practice debut in the #47 Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing Honda. The German showed competitive pace, finishing 23rd and staying within a second of the day’s leader without incident.
Challenging Conditions Result in Multiple Incidents
Experience did not spare some drivers from trouble. Veteran Scott Dixon crashed heavily at the exit of Turn 9 when his Chip Ganassi Racing Honda lost grip while crossing the apex, sending him into the outside concrete barrier. His car sustained significant front and side damage, requiring a tow back to the paddock. Fortunately, Dixon was evaluated at the care center and released without injuries.
Two-time champion Josef Newgarden also encountered difficulties, spinning into the grass after taking too much curb at the Turn 12 chicane. Though his Team Penske Chevy stopped near the barriers in a dust cloud, Newgarden managed to drive back to the pits.
Similarly, Louis Foster’s RLL Honda became stuck under the tire barriers after a comparable off-track moment damaged his front-left suspension, forcing his car to be towed off the circuit.
Next Steps for Drivers and Teams at St. Petersburg
The drivers will return to action Saturday morning at 9:35 AM Eastern for the second practice session, aiming to improve setups and address the balance issues seen on Friday. Later that afternoon, knockout qualifying will begin at 4:35 PM, deciding the starting grid for the weekend’s race.
This opening day showcased both McLaughlin’s continued strength and the hazards posed by St. Petersburg’s narrow street course. The incidents involving veterans like Dixon and Newgarden highlight the circuit’s unforgiving nature, underscoring the need for precision as the championship season commences.
“McLaughlin has always enjoyed the streets of St. Petersburg, and showed that he has not lost any pace over the offseason.” – Not attributed
“Drivers will be back on track tomorrow at 9:35 AM eastern time for a second practice run, followed by knockout qualifying at 4:35 PM.” – Not attributed
