IndyCar - Laguna Seca

The INDYCAR Grand Prix of Monterey brings the NTT INDYCAR SERIES to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California. This race at Laguna Seca marks the 29th time the IndyCar series has visited this legendary circuit. The 2026 edition features the world's best open-wheel drivers competing on one of North America's most challenging road courses.

The Circuit at Laguna Seca

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca spans 2.238 miles and features 11 turns. The track includes an elevation change of 180 feet across its length. The circuit was completely resurfaced to provide optimal racing conditions. Built in 1957 on former U.S. Army land at Fort Ord, Laguna Seca translates to "dry lake" in Spanish.

The Famous Corkscrew

The Corkscrew at Laguna Seca stands as one of motorsports' most recognizable corners. This sharp left-right combination at Turns 8 and 8A drops 59 feet between entrance and exit. From Turn 8 to Turn 9, the elevation falls 109 feet. Alex Zanardi's historic pass on Bryan Herta at this corner during the 1996 CART race remains one of racing's most memorable moments.

Other Key Corners

The Andretti Hairpin at Turn 2 tests driver precision under braking. Rainey Curve at Turn 9 concludes the dramatic descent through the Corkscrew. Each corner at Laguna Seca demands respect and skill from IndyCar drivers.

Race Format

The IndyCar race at Laguna Seca covers approximately 95 laps for a total distance of 212 miles. Drivers navigate the 2.238-mile permanent road course, managing tire wear and fuel strategy across the demanding layout. Christian Lundgaard set the current track record in 2023 with a lap time of 1 minute, 6.461 seconds.

Teams and Drivers

The 2026 IndyCar grid at Laguna Seca includes top teams such as Arrow McLaren, Team Penske, Andretti Autosport, and Chip Ganassi Racing. Veteran drivers like Scott Dixon, Alex Palou, and Colton Herta bring their experience to this technical circuit. The field also includes rookies Jacob Abel, Louis Foster, and Robert Shwartzman, who will face the unique challenges of Laguna Seca.

Technical Specifications

All IndyCar entries use Dallara chassis powered by either Honda or Chevrolet 2.2-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engines. The series continues to develop hybrid technology for its power units. These technical regulations ensure competitive racing while pushing innovation in open-wheel motorsport.

Racing Heritage

Laguna Seca hosted its first race on November 9, 1957. The track welcomed its first IndyCar race in 1983. Over the decades, Laguna Seca has hosted numerous racing series including USRRC, Can-Am, Trans-Am, Formula 5000, IMSA GT, American Le Mans Series, and more. The circuit has a strong tradition of hosting important open-wheel series races.

Economic Impact

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca generates millions of dollars for the Monterey County economy. The IndyCar race attracts fans from across the country and around the globe. This event supports local businesses and showcases Monterey as a premier motorsports destination.

What Makes This Race Special

The combination of elevation changes, technical corners, and rich history makes the IndyCar race at Laguna Seca unique. The Corkscrew provides spectacular viewing and challenges even the most skilled drivers. The circuit rewards smooth driving and punishes mistakes. Fans witness open-wheel racing at its finest on a track that has tested champions for decades. The 2026 race promises close competition and memorable moments on this storied California circuit.