Schumacher plots bold new course – moves full-time to IndyCar!

Mick Schumacher is leaving the comfort of Europe’s racing circles and throwing himself into the deep end of American open-wheel competition, confirming a full campaign in the NTT IndyCar Series in 2026 with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing.

The move closes one chapter of his career and opens another – one defined by high-speed ovals, wheel-to-wheel battles, and the legendary Indianapolis 500.

Schumacher’s switch comes after two seasons in the WEC with Alpine, where he proved competitive in the A424 LMDh prototype and collected three podiums. But single-seaters remained his true north star, and after testing an IndyCar for the first time on the Indianapolis road course last month, the path forward became clear.

A Fresh Start in the #47

“I am delighted to confirm today that I will be competing in the INDYCAR SERIES next year with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, taking part in the full season,” said the 26-year-old, who will drive the Honda-powered #47 Dallara DW12 across all 17 rounds.

Schumacher brings not only Formula 1 experience – two seasons with Haas – but also a growing résumé in endurance racing. He believes that combination will strengthen his new collaboration with RLL.

“Having both an F1 and an endurance background, and having competed in various racing series over the years, I have insights and knowledge that I am sure will contribute to a great partnership,” he added.

“RLL prepared me extremely well during testing already, and I am sure that we can build a lot together.”

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That first test left an immediate impression. Schumacher quickly felt at home in the cockpit and connected with the team around him.

“I was also immediately excited about the car and the American way of motorsport which comes across as being more about pure and direct racing, and it is precisely this aspect that I am very much looking forward to.”

The appeal wasn’t just competitive – it was personal. After years of pressure and expectations, Schumacher is leaning into the fresh opportunity.

“And of course, I am curious about new experiences and always interested in broadening my horizons. For me, a new journey is beginning here, and I am excited for the season to start.”

Rahal: ‘He impressed every single team member’

Schumacher will join Graham Rahal and 2025 Rookie of the Year Louis Foster, stepping into the seat previously held by Devlin DeFrancesco. For RLL co-owner Bobby Rahal, the decision was easy after seeing Schumacher in action.

“I think I speak for everyone at RLL when I say how thrilled we are to welcome Mick to the team and to INDYCAR,” Rahal said.

“His test with us on the IMS road course was exceptional – he impressed every single team member. Everyone walked away from that event determined to do what we could to bring Mick into our program. We’re thrilled he’s chosen to join us, and we can’t wait to get to work.”

With an oval test on the horizon and a full calendar ahead, Schumacher’s American adventure is officially underway – lively, promising, and unmistakably his own.

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