Indy NXT - Detroit Grand Prix

The INDY NXT by Firestone series returns to the Streets of Detroit for the 2026 Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear. This race represents a critical step on the "Road to Indy" ladder and showcases the future stars of American open-wheel racing. The downtown street circuit in Detroit, Michigan provides a challenging proving ground for drivers advancing toward the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.

About the INDY NXT Race

The INDY NXT by Firestone race takes place on the temporary street circuit in downtown Detroit, Michigan. The race covers 45 laps or runs for 55 minutes, whichever comes first. This event serves as a primary support series for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, with the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship also featured during the weekend.

The Detroit Grand Prix offers unique spectator access, with significant portions of the event footprint along Jefferson Avenue and the Detroit Riverfront open to the public free of charge. This accessibility allows fans to experience professional open-wheel racing up close.

The Streets of Detroit Circuit

The downtown Detroit street circuit measures approximately 1.645 miles (2.647 km) in length and features nine turns. The temporary course winds through the streets surrounding the Renaissance Center in downtown Detroit, Michigan.

Circuit Characteristics

The course presents distinct challenges for drivers. The asphalt and concrete surface can be bumpy, requiring precise car control. The circuit features a 0.7-mile straightaway down East Jefferson Avenue, which stands as the longest straight on any INDYCAR street circuit. Drivers reach high speeds on this section before braking hard for the turns.

The Detroit Grand Prix circuit also incorporates a unique two-lane pit road design. This configuration adds strategic elements to pit stops and race strategy.

The INDY NXT Cars

INDY NXT by Firestone cars are purpose-built open-wheel racing machines that prepare drivers for progression to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.

Chassis and Safety

All teams use the Dallara IL-15 chassis, a carbon fiber single-seat design. The chassis includes a cockpit protection device for driver safety. Additional safety features include headrests, specialized seats, a secondary pedal bulkhead, and zylon panels. The chassis meets FIA specifications and INDYCAR safety standards.

Engine and Performance

An Advanced Engine Research (AER) P63 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine powers each car. This engine produces approximately 450 horsepower. Drivers can activate a Push-to-Pass system for overtaking maneuvers, which provides an additional 50 horsepower. Each driver receives a maximum of 50 activations or 150 seconds of total Push-to-Pass time per race.

Drivetrain and Tires

The cars feature an Xtrac 6-speed sequential gearbox with electronic shift actuation. A Tilton carbon three-plate clutch manages power delivery. Firestone serves as the exclusive tire supplier, providing Firehawk racing tires. These tires incorporate ENLITEN Technology, which includes sustainable materials like renewable soybean oil and recycled components.

Teams and Drivers for 2026

Several teams have announced their plans for the 2026 INDY NXT by Firestone season. Chip Ganassi Racing fields a four-car lineup featuring Bryce Aron, Niels Koolen, James Roe, and Carson Etter. Juncos Hollinger Racing brings back Ricardo Escotto. A. J. Foyt Racing expands into INDY NXT with a two-car alliance with HMD Motorsports, including driver Nicholas Monteiro. Ed Carpenter Racing fields two cars in partnership with Cape Motorsports.

The complete entry list for the Detroit race will be confirmed closer to the event. INDY NXT by Firestone serves as a development series, with many graduates advancing to successful careers in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.

Detroit Grand Prix History

The Detroit Grand Prix has hosted major racing series since 1982, when Formula One first raced on the downtown streets. The event transitioned to CART in 1989. After years at Belle Isle, the Detroit Grand Prix returned to its downtown street circuit roots in 2023, racing in downtown Detroit for the first time since 1991.

Indy Lights Legacy in Detroit

Indy Lights, the predecessor name to INDY NXT by Firestone, first joined the Detroit Grand Prix support program in 1989. The series continued when the event moved to Belle Isle in 1992 and remained part of the weekend for many years. The series returned to Detroit at Belle Isle in 2012.

Many prominent drivers who now compete in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES developed their skills in this series. Notable alumni include Scott Dixon, Tony Kanaan, Helio Castroneves, and Josef Newgarden. The Detroit race has historically provided a platform for emerging talent to demonstrate their abilities on a demanding street circuit.

What Makes This Event Special

The Streets of Detroit circuit offers a unique combination of long straights and tight corners that tests driver skill and car setup. The downtown location creates an urban racing atmosphere distinct from traditional road courses or ovals. The current downtown circuit configuration, revived in 2023, differs from the original Formula One and CART layouts but maintains the character of street racing in Detroit, Michigan.

The Detroit Grand Prix is managed by the Detroit Grand Prix organization, a 501(c)3 nonprofit and subsidiary of the Downtown Detroit Partnership. This structure connects the racing event directly to the local community.

For fans of open-wheel racing, the INDY NXT by Firestone race at the Detroit Grand Prix provides an opportunity to see the next generation of drivers compete on one of the most challenging street circuits in North America. The combination of high-speed straights, technical corners, and the unpredictable nature of street racing creates compelling competition throughout the field.