IndyCar - Laguna Seca

The NTT IndyCar Series will conclude its 2026 season at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca with the INDYCAR Grand Prix of Monterey. This race serves as the season finale where the Astor Challenge Cup will be awarded to the series champion. The event brings open-wheel racing to one of California's most recognized road courses, where drivers will compete across 2.238 miles of challenging pavement. All 2026 IndyCar races, including this Laguna Seca finale, are scheduled for broadcast on FOX.

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca Circuit Details

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca sits on California's Central Coast, near Salinas and Monterey. The circuit measures 2.238 miles (3.602 km) and features 11 turns with a dramatic 180-foot (55 m) elevation change. The track holds an FIA Grade Two classification.

The Corkscrew

The circuit is world-famous for its signature "Corkscrew" at Turns 8 and 8A. This combination presents one of motorsport's most difficult turns. The section features a blind crest with an apex on an uphill approach. The track drops 59 feet (18 m) in elevation over just 450 feet of track length. This descent equals a 5½ story drop, making it a defining challenge for any driver at Laguna Seca.

Other Notable Track Sections

The "Andretti Hairpin" at Turn 2 is a technical double-apex corner named after Mario Andretti. The "Rahal Straight" runs between Turns 6 and 7, honoring Bobby Rahal. These sections add to the technical demands of the circuit.

2026 IndyCar Participants at Laguna Seca

The 2026 NTT IndyCar Series features competition among top-tier teams and drivers. While the complete entry list for the Laguna Seca finale will be confirmed closer to the event, several prominent teams are expected to compete. Team Penske, Chip Ganassi Racing, and Andretti Global will likely contend for the championship.

Driver Changes for 2026

Several driver announcements have been made for the 2026 season. David Malukas will join Team Penske. Dennis Hauger will drive for Dale Coyne Racing. Rinus VeeKay will move to Juncos Hollinger Racing. Will Power is set to join Andretti Global. Colton Herta will depart IndyCar to become a test driver for the Cadillac Formula 1 Team.

Alex Palou, the 2025 series champion, has multiple victories at Laguna Seca and is expected to be a strong contender in the 2026 race.

Technical Aspects of IndyCar Racing

IndyCar Series cars use a Dallara-built spec chassis. The engines are 2.2-liter, V6, twin-turbocharged units from Honda and Chevrolet. These power units produce over 700 horsepower. For 2026, the engines incorporate an integrated energy recovery system (ERS) that adds up to 60 horsepower. The ERS captures and redeploys energy during the race. Drivers have control over the ERS's "Stage of Charge."

Safety and Equipment

Safety remains a key focus for the series. Cars feature an integrated aeroscreen for driver protection. New superspeedway flaps will be fitted atop the rear tire ramps for the 2026 season. These flaps deploy during a spin to reduce the likelihood of a car lifting off the ground. Firestone serves as the sole tire supplier for the series.

Officiating Changes

A significant organizational change for 2026 is the establishment of "INDYCAR Officiating." This new independent, not-for-profit organization will oversee all competition officiating. A three-person Independent Officiating Board governs this entity.

Laguna Seca IndyCar History

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca was constructed in 1957 at a cost of $1.5 million. The track was built on a portion of the U.S. Army's Fort Ord. This development occurred after the renowned Pebble Beach Road Races were deemed too dangerous. The track's name, "Laguna Seca," is Spanish for "dry lake." The circuit was built around an ancient dry lake bed. The first race took place on November 9, 1957.

IndyCar at Laguna Seca

Indy cars first raced at Laguna Seca in 1983. The track has hosted open-wheel events including CART and Champ Car races over the decades. After a break, the IndyCar Series returned to Laguna Seca in 2019 to serve as the season finale. The series reprises this role in 2026. The 2026 event will mark the 29th time the IndyCar Series has visited the Monterey track.

Historic moments at the circuit include Alex Zanardi's legendary "The Pass" on Bryan Herta at the Corkscrew in 1996. Bobby Rahal holds the record for most IndyCar wins at Laguna Seca with four consecutive victories from 1984 to 1987.

Notable Facts About Laguna Seca

The drop from Turn 8 to Turn 9 at the Corkscrew is 109 feet, equivalent to more than 10 stories. The raceway is celebrated for its scenic location amidst the natural beauty of California's Central Coast.

Laguna Seca has been featured in numerous films and video games, including Gran Turismo. This exposure has solidified its status beyond motorsport. Beyond premier auto and motorcycle racing events, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca hosts various community events and entertainment activities.

The property has been part of the Monterey County Parks Department since 1974, making it publicly owned. The track has undergone significant investments and fan-focused renovations. The non-profit "Friends of Laguna Seca" has spearheaded these improvements, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

What to Expect from the 2026 Race

The 2026 INDYCAR Grand Prix of Monterey at Laguna Seca promises to deliver compelling racing action. The championship battle will reach its conclusion on this challenging road course. The combination of the circuit's elevation changes, technical corners, and high-speed sections creates opportunities for overtaking and strategy. The Corkscrew will remain a critical point where positions can be gained or lost.

The addition of the ERS system for 2026 adds a new strategic element to IndyCar racing at Laguna Seca. Drivers will need to manage their energy deployment carefully through the lap. The energy recovery system could prove particularly valuable on the circuit's elevation changes and under braking zones.

Fans following the 2026 IndyCar season will witness the culmination of a year's worth of competition at this California circuit. The race will determine who claims the Astor Challenge Cup and the title of series champion.