Here’s something you don’t see every day: a brand-new IndyCar undergoing testing!
The next-generation Dallara IR28 performed its first major tests over the weekend (Aug 1st & 2nd, 2026) on the road course at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Indy 500 winner Alex Rossi drove the prototype on Saturday, completing 36 laps before thunderstorms ended the session early. Next up on Sunday was four-time IndyCar champ Alex Palou who turned another 35 laps, despite constant rain. Must have been nerve-racking to test out the only IR28 on a slippery track surrounded by concrete walls!
The purpose of the test was not to chase lap records, but to confirm that the new chassis, aerodynamics, electronics and other systems functioned properly under real track conditions, sometimes called installation laps. The IR28 was powered by an old Ilmor 2.4-litre twin-turbo V6 test engine (without the hybrid system) so it was neither a Honda nor a Chevy.
Even in this incomplete specification, the car showed impressive speed and reliability. Rossi reported only a minor sensor issue during his test, while Palou’s running was briefly interrupted by telemetry and alternator problems. Both drivers praised the smoother handling and more connected feel.
All the assembled motorsports media in attendance at Indianapolis agreed that the car looked incredible and aggressive in road course trim, with its massive aerodynamic wings. If looks count for anything, this car should be able to break IndyCar track records once the 2028 engine is bolted in. Eagle-eyed spectators noted that the IR28 was running BBS, like the old Panoz DP01 Champ Car — a nice connection to the sport’s recent history.
After the 2026 IndyCar season wraps up in September, the IR28 prototype will return to Indianapolis for preliminary testing on the oval in low-drag superspeedway trim. That should be exciting!
Thank you, that car is gorgeous I am sure they will get all the bugs out but boy those men must have been so excited to try out this beauty glitches and all you are right too much stress for most 🙂
Yeah… no pressure, eh Eunice? Here’s a one-of-a-kind race car. There’s the motoring press watching your every move. Get out there on that soaking wet track and show some speed!
NUTS!!!!! The press is brutal at times and wet tracks if the set-up isn’t perfect quite treacherous so I am glad they laid laps with no incidents. Car owner for sure was 🙂