Mick Schumacher’s IndyCar Move: A New Chapter Beyond Formula 1

Mick Schumacher is joining the NTT IndyCar Series full-time. He will race for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing starting in 2026. The announcement was made on November 25, 2025. This move ends his pursuit of a permanent Formula 1 seat.

Schumacher will drive the team’s No. 47 Honda. He replaces Devlin DeFrancesco after a successful test at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. This shift highlights IndyCar’s growing appeal to European drivers.

From F1 Reserve to American Open-Wheel Racing

Schumacher’s Formula 1 career included two seasons with the Haas F1 Team. He was then a reserve driver for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas team. According to Reuters, his path back to a full-time F1 seat became increasingly narrow.

The competitive nature of Formula 1 left few opportunities. Top teams solidified their driver lineups for the long term. This reality pushed Schumacher to seek a new competitive outlet.

Rahal Letterman Lanigan’s Strategic Driver Choice

Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing is prioritizing talent. Schumacher joins Graham Rahal and Louis Foster for the 2026 season. This forms one of the team’s most promising lineups in recent years.

The team was impressed with Schumacher’s performance during his test. His background in F1 and endurance racing brings valuable technical insight. The move signals a shift away from relying on drivers who bring significant sponsorship.

IndyCar’s Allure for International Drivers

The NTT IndyCar Series has become a popular destination. It offers a highly competitive environment with diverse tracks. Many drivers find the racing pure and less politically charged than European series.

Schumacher is the latest in a line of former F1 drivers to make the switch. The series provides a platform for drivers to rebuild their careers. It focuses on racing skill and adaptability.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season

Schumacher faces a steep learning curve. He must adapt to oval racing, a discipline absent from F1. The 2026 IndyCar calendar features 17 races across various track types.

His progress will be closely watched by motorsport fans worldwide. Success in IndyCar could redefine his professional identity. It moves him out from the immense shadow of his father’s legacy.

Mick Schumacher’s IndyCar move represents a significant career reset. It offers him a clear path to competitive racing. His journey will be one of the most compelling stories in the 2026 season.

Thought you’d like to know

Which team is Mick Schumacher joining in IndyCar?

He is joining Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing. He will drive the No. 47 Honda. The team confirmed his multi-year deal for the 2026 season.

Why did Mick Schumacher leave Formula 1?

He lost his full-time seat with Haas F1 after the 2022 season. A return to a permanent role did not materialize. The competitive IndyCar series offered a fresh start and regular racing.

Has Mick Schumacher raced in America before?

His recent test at Indianapolis Motor Speedway was a key step. He has no prior professional racing experience in the United States. His background is primarily in European Formula series and the World Endurance Championship.

What does this mean for his Formula 1 career?

A full-time IndyCar commitment makes an F1 return unlikely. His focus is now entirely on succeeding in American open-wheel racing. This move effectively closes the chapter on his F1 aspirations for the foreseeable future.

Who will he be teammates with?

His teammates will be veteran driver Graham Rahal and 2025 Rookie of the Year Louis Foster. This trio aims to strengthen the team’s competitive standing. They represent a mix of experience and emerging talent.