Mick Schumacher will join Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLL) in the IndyCar series in 2026, the Indiana-based team announced on Monday. The 26-year-old son of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher is returning to single-seater racing after two seasons in the World Endurance Championship with Alpine.
Mick Schumacher will make his IndyCar debut in 2026. He has already completed several test laps with RLL during the post-season tests in Indianapolis. Next year, he will race on oval tracks for the first time, including the iconic Indianapolis 500. The team is planning an oval test to optimally prepare him for the new season. Schumacher will once again race with starting number 47, a symbolic nod to his father and family. Alongside Graham Rahal, son of team owner Bobby Rahal, and Louis Foster, the INDYCAR Rookie of the Year in 2025, he forms the RLL line-up.
“I am delighted to confirm today that I will be racing with RLL in the IndyCar next year,” Schumacher said. “With both a Formula 1 and endurance background, and having raced in various classes over the years, I bring insights and knowledge that will certainly contribute to a great collaboration. RLL has already prepared me excellently during the tests, and I am confident that we can achieve a lot together.”
‘American Style of Motorsport’
“I was immediately enthusiastic about the car and the American style of motorsport, which feels more like pure and direct racing, and that’s exactly what I’m looking forward to,” he added. “And of course, I’m curious about new experiences; I always want to broaden my horizons. For me, a new journey begins here, and I’m looking forward to the start of the season.” The 2026 IndyCar season consists of seventeen races on a mix of street circuits, permanent circuits, and ovals. Schumacher will make his IndyCar debut at the season opener on the street circuit of St. Petersburg on March 1st.
Team owner Bobby Rahal responded enthusiastically to Schumacher’s arrival: “His test with us in Indianapolis was exceptional. He impressed every team member. Everyone was then determined to involve Mick in our program. We are incredibly pleased that he has chosen to join us, and we can’t wait to get started.” After his relatively short Formula 1 adventure, Schumacher became a test and reserve driver for Mercedes and then joined the WEC team of Alpine. He said his goodbyes to the French racing team last week.
