A fresh twist for the upcoming season is the new Qualifying Series format, featuring the newly released Dallara IL-15 chassis used in the real-world INDY NXT by Firestone, INDYCAR's official development series. This adds extra realism and lets sim racers experience the same car model as future INDYCAR stars.
The Pro Series races will be broadcast live at 8 p.m. ET on Thursday nights via iRacing’s social channels and the NTT INDYCAR SERIES YouTube channel, giving fans extensive access to the action and driver narratives.
iRacing President Tony Gardner expressed excitement about the new series format and the expanding relationship with INDYCAR, which will also include the launch of an official INDYCAR game on console and PC in 2026. Recent content updates to the simulation have included iconic venues like Portland International Raceway and the Dallara IL-15 chassis.
The 2024 inaugural INDYCAR iRacing Pro Series crowned Diogo Pinto as champion after a consistent season highlighted by winning at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. The 2025-26 season aims to build on that excitement and showcase the next generation of virtual racers.
More detailed schedules for both the Pro Series and Qualifying Series will be released soon, promising another thrilling chapter in INDYCAR’s growing eSports presence.