IndyCar confirms new race for 2026 in partnership with Dallas Cowboys

IndyCar has officially announced a new racing partnership with the legendary Dallas Cowboys franchise for the 2026 season.

This partnership stems from a long-standing relationship between sports moguls Jerry Jones of the Cowboys and Roger Penske of IndyCar. The newly introduced IndyCar Arlington Grand Prix will debut on a uniquely designed 2.73-mile street circuit at Texas Live!, located near Globe Life Field and AT&T Stadium.

Key figures from sports and entertainment attended the unveiling of the IndyCar Arlington Grand Prix. Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, Hall of Famers DeMarcus Ware and Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez, as well as IndyCar champions Alex Palou and Josef Newgarden were in attendance. Newgarden told The Associated Press during the event:

“When I was a young child and wanted to be a race car driver, I dreamed of winning iconic events like the Indianapolis 500. And I think the Arlington Grand Prix will be one of those events you’ll want to circle. to win every year.

“It is an honor for us to come race here in Arlington and be part of an iconic brand like the Cowboys and Rangers.”

Reflecting on the partnership, Jerry Jones explained:

“The bottom line is that Roger has really been a model for me in terms of how he has turned competitive racing into an economic scenario that works.

“He is my sportsman. He changed that mentality of needing (the NFL) to go where you can have sun and ocean. He changed that concept and was very effective.”

The track itself promises to offer exciting racing action, with a 0.9-mile straight and 14 corners designed to challenge drivers as they reach speeds in excess of 186 mph. A double-sided pit lane and hospitality suites along various parts of the circuit promise a first-class viewing experience for spectators.

Penske also commented on the collaboration:

“When you put the Cowboys and the Rangers in our series, I think it gives us so much credibility.

“I think we have stepped out of our shadows. Just standing here looking at these stadiums and what they’ve built here…it takes an anchor, it takes a tenant. Jerry has built a tremendous business here and I believe our ability to join his team in the future will take it to the next level.”

In a nod to the energy and enthusiasm surrounding the announcement, Texas Rangers public address announcer Chuck Morgan boldly stated:

“It’s IndyCar race time in Texas.”