IndyCar Ushers in Era of Independent Officiating for 2026 Season

The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is poised for a significant shift in its operational structure with the full implementation of independent officiating for both the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT by Firestone seasons. This move, designed to enhance transparency and ensure fair competition, establishes a novel, not-for-profit organization – INDYCAR Officiating Inc. – governed by an Independent Officiating Board (IOB).

A New Framework for Fairness

The core of this change lies in the creation of a three-person IOB, responsible for selecting a Managing Director of Officiating (MDO) and managing the annual budget. The board members were chosen independently, with two selected by a vote from INDYCAR team owners and one appointed by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).

Meet the Independent Officiating Board

• Ray Evernham: A motorsports veteran known for his success as a crew chief in the NASCAR Cup Series, including three championships with Jeff Gordon.
• Raj Nair: A 30-year industry veteran with extensive experience in automotive and auto racing, holding executive positions at Singer Group, Inc., Multimatic, Inc. and Ford Motor Company.
• Ronan Morgan: Appointed by the FIA.

Key Personnel Remain in Place

Whereas the structure is evolving, experienced personnel will continue to play vital roles. Kyle Novak will remain as the race director and vice president of INDYCAR Officiating, a position he has held since 2018. Kevin “Rocket” Blanch will continue as the technical director, overseeing technical inspection, and compliance. Arie Luyendyk and Max Papis will also continue their roles as chief stewards.

New Additions to Support the System

To bolster the independent officiating system, the IOB has added Nick Allen as a technical inspection manager for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Plans are also underway to add a technical inspection manager for INDY NXT and a dedicated INDY NXT race director in the coming weeks.

“The officiating in INDYCAR is not broken; in fact, racing series around the world could learn from its procedures and operation,”

said board member Morgan.

The IOB will be present at the season opener at the Streets of St. Petersburg, providing oversight and sharing responsibilities until the MDO is appointed.

Transparency and Consistency as Priorities

The IOB is focused on implementing a more detailed transparency reporting structure for teams, covering technical and race infractions, and establishing consistent rule implementation and enforcement. The board is currently interviewing candidates for the MDO position.

“The board has been meticulous and thorough in our review of INDYCAR’s officiating process and procedures,”

board chairman Nair said.

The 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season will kick off on Sunday, March 1, at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, with coverage on FOX, FOX Deportes, FOX One, and the FOX Sports app, as well as the INDYCAR Radio Network.

FAQ

• What is INDYCAR Officiating Inc.? A new, not-for-profit organization established to govern independent officiating for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT.
• Who is on the Independent Officiating Board? Ray Evernham, Raj Nair, and Ronan Morgan.
• When does this new system begin? The 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT seasons.

Pro Tip: Stay updated on the latest INDYCAR news and regulations by visiting INDYCAR.com.

This shift towards independent officiating marks a significant step for INDYCAR, promising a more transparent and equitable racing environment for all involved. The focus on experienced personnel combined with new oversight aims to build upon the sport’s existing strengths while addressing concerns about fairness and consistency.