Dennis Hauger, the 2025 Indy NXT champion, delivered a standout performance during Monday's IndyCar Series test on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s road course. Driving the No. 18 Honda for Dale Coyne Racing, Hauger turned an unofficial best lap time of 1:10.768, edging out a competitive field of six other drivers.
Alexander Rossi, driving Ed Carpenter Racing’s No. 20 Chevy, settled for second fastest with a lap time of 1:10.858, while Mick Schumacher in Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing’s No. 75 Honda was close behind in third at 1:10.980. These three were the class of the seven-driver test session.
The group also included NXT runner-up Caio Collet, who posted the fourth fastest time for AJ Foyt Racing, Andretti Global’s Lochie Hughes, Christian Rasmussen of Ed Carpenter Racing, and James Roe representing Juncos Hollinger Racing. Collet led the mileage count with 83 laps completed.
The test saw some morning interruptions with timing and scoring issues, but afternoon conditions were ideal — warm temperatures near 70 degrees and calm winds — allowing the drivers to push hard and showcase their skills.
For Dennis Hauger, this IndyCar test follows an incredibly successful rookie season in Indy NXT, where he claimed six wins, seven poles, and secured the championship with one race remaining. His seamless transition to the top tier of American open-wheel racing is eagerly anticipated as he prepares for a full-time 2026 IndyCar campaign.
With the promising test outing, Hauger continues to reinforce his reputation as one of the brightest young talents ready to make a significant impact in IndyCar’s competitive environment.
