Renowned team owner Chip Ganassi expressed that the IndyCar series is currently experiencing one of its healthiest periods in his extensive involvement with the sport. Ganassi, whose team was established in 1990 and has competed consistently in America’s premier open-wheel racing, highlighted recent developments as signs of a positive trajectory for IndyCar’s future.
Renewed Partnerships and Broadcasting Boost the Sport’s Profile
Ganassi specifically pointed to the arrival of FOX as a major broadcast partner and the recommitment of Honda as a pivotal moment for IndyCar’s growth. He explained that Honda’s renewed involvement addressed concerns that many had last year regarding the engine partnership. Ganassi noted,
“Yeah, good question. I’m trying to remember. I would say not since back in the CART days, when reunification came. Certainly there haven’t been too many times it’s been this exciting for the sport going forward.”
Reflecting on FOX’s entry, Ganassi added,
“Obviously with FOX coming on as a partner. When FOX announced they were coming as a partner in the sport, I think I said that this is one of the top three or four things in my lifetime in IndyCar racing as a pinnacle of a moment.”
When asked how this compares to previous milestones, he replied,
“Yeah, I’m not sure. Maybe when live TV came in or something. I don’t know [smiling]. It’s big. It’s big.”
—Chip Ganassi, Team Owner
The impact of the new broadcast deal was evident at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, which drew 1.4 million viewers on FOX, underscoring growing public interest. Following that race, attention turns to the upcoming Phoenix Raceway events, including the FOX Sports ‘Desert Double,’ where IndyCar and NASCAR Cup Series will compete back-to-back.
Consistent Success and Experience Strengthen Ganassi’s Viewpoint
Ganassi’s optimism is partly influenced by the sustained success of his star driver Alex Palou, who has secured four championships in the last five seasons. This elite performance has helped attract heightened sponsorship and fan attention to Ganassi’s program. Despite this personal success, the 67-year-old owner maintains a broad perspective on the sport’s overall condition, acknowledging challenges while remaining hopeful.
He expressed confidence in IndyCar’s trajectory, stating,
“I think we’re poised again for another growth spurt this year,”
highlighting expectations for continued expansion and rising momentum.
Positive Outlook Signals an Exciting Era Ahead for IndyCar
Chip Ganassi’s remarks suggest that the combination of strong partnerships, influential broadcast deals, and top-level driver performance is creating a solid foundation for IndyCar’s future. With enhanced visibility and renewed commitments from key stakeholders, the sport appears well-positioned to expand its fan base and competitive appeal. As the season progresses through venues like St. Petersburg and Phoenix Raceway, momentum is building toward a promising period in IndyCar racing’s evolution.
The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg delivered 1.4 million viewers Sunday on FOX to open the FOX INDYCAR season – even with last year. 🏁
Now, on to Phoenix for the FOX Sports ‘Desert Double’ as the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the NASCAR Cup Series take on Phoenix Raceway on… pic.twitter.com/jMqVWcYVBt
— FOX Sports PR (@FOXSportsPR) March 3, 2026
