In a pivotal decision shaping the future of race governance, IndyCar’s parent company Penske Entertainment has announced that it will not outsource the governance and technical inspection responsibilities of its race series to outside organizations such as the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) or the FIA.
Following a period of exploration involving consultation with national and international sanctioning bodies, IndyCar has opted to create a newly independent officiating board composed and operated internally by Penske Entertainment. This board, targeted to launch ahead of the 2026 season, will operate autonomously, making impartial decisions over race control, stewarding, and technical inspections.
The move comes amid growing concerns over conflict of interest, as Penske Entertainment owns both the IndyCar series and a competing race team, Team Penske. Incidents involving technical violations by Team Penske cars at the 2024 Indianapolis 500 intensified calls for independent oversight.
IndyCar president Doug Boles confirmed that Penske Entertainment will fund the independent board and cover officials' travel expenses but will retain no direct managerial control. The board will be small, comprising three members who liaise with the parent company but maintain full autonomy in decisions.
This governance model aims to quell doubts about conflicts of interest and ensure credibility and fairness in race officiating and technical rulings, reassuring teams, drivers, and fans alike.
Operationally, race directors, technical inspectors, and race officials will continue their roles on the ground as usual. The significant change lies in the leadership structure, with a dedicated independent board accountable for their overall management, taking complaints, investigating infractions, and judging penalties free from influence.
Penske Entertainment’s plan also includes appointing a lead administrator to manage day-to-day operations, providing consistent communication and accountability.
This decision marks a significant evolution for IndyCar’s governance as it strives to balance integrity with competitive excellence. The transparent and autonomous structure hopes to restore trust after controversial infractions and penalties and provides a foundation for the series’ long-term credibility and growth.
The 2026 season will debut this new officiating board, monitoring closely how it supports fair competition and safeguards IndyCar’s storied legacy.
