FOX’s Investment Fuels IndyCar Viewership and Expansion
The IndyCar Series is experiencing a period of growth and increased visibility, bolstered by a significant investment from FOX Corporation. FOX’s deepened involvement, transitioning from exclusive broadcaster to a one-third stake owner in Penske Entertainment – IndyCar’s parent company – is already showing signs of impact, both in viewership numbers and strategic expansion.
Steady Viewership Numbers to Start the 2026 Season
The 2026 IndyCar season opened with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on February 27th, drawing 1.4 million viewers on FOX, mirroring the viewership of the 2025 season opener at the same venue. IndyStar reports the race peaked at 1.6 million viewers, slightly lower than the 1.8 million peak achieved during the 2025 St. Petersburg race.
FOX’s Expanded Role and Promotional Efforts
FOX Corporation’s acquisition of a one-third stake in Penske Entertainment, finalized in July 2025, signifies a long-term commitment to the series’ future. Motorsport.com highlights ambitions including racing innovation, immersive content, enhanced digital platforms, and elevating drivers to national recognition. This move follows FOX becoming the exclusive broadcaster of IndyCar races, replacing NBC after the 2024 season.
Prior to the 2026 season opener, FOX released a series of four preseason commercials featuring prominent drivers Josef Newgarden, Pato O’Ward, Will Power, and Alex Palou. These commercials aired during high-profile events such as the NFL playoffs and the Daytona 500, significantly broadening IndyCar’s reach. FOX Sports as well featured O’Ward and Palou as guests on the FS1 sports talk show, “First Things First,” further amplifying their profiles and promoting the upcoming season.
Strategic Schedule Expansion and Latest Race Locations
IndyCar is not resting on its current momentum. Instead of a lengthy break after St. Petersburg, the series immediately followed up with races in Avondale, Arizona (Good Ranchers 250) and Arlington, Texas (Grand Prix of Arlington). The Good Ranchers 250 marks IndyCar’s return to Phoenix Raceway for the first time since 2018. The Grand Prix of Arlington, a new addition to the schedule, is a street race designed to weave through the grounds of AT&T Stadium (home of the Dallas Cowboys) and Globe Life Field (home of the Texas Rangers). IndyStar notes that the success of these new races, along with Markham, Ontario and Washington, D.C., will be key indicators of FOX’s promotional impact.
Looking Ahead
The initial viewership numbers from St. Petersburg suggest a stable foundation, but the true measure of FOX’s influence will be seen in the performance of the expanded schedule and the series’ ability to attract new fans through innovative content and broader media exposure. The partnership between FOX and IndyCar represents a pivotal moment for the sport, with the potential to elevate its profile and solidify its position within the American motorsports landscape.