Mick Schumacher has described his IndyCar as "pretty fun to drive" and similar to a Formula 2 car, prior to his debut in the series. He expressed enjoyment for the "raw motorsport" feel of IndyCar.
Schumacher discussed his increasing interest in moving to IndyCar and how his initial uncertainties regarding oval racing were resolved.
Transition to IndyCar
Schumacher signed with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing for the 2026 IndyCar season. This move follows two years in the World Endurance Championship with Alpine and duties as a Mercedes/McLaren F1 reserve driver, after leaving his Haas F1 seat at the end of 2022.
During an appearance on the Off Track with Hinch and Rossi podcast, Schumacher addressed whether he had followed IndyCar previously or developed an understanding upon arrival. He stated that as his Formula 1 situation became more complex, various teams approached him. Initially, he maintained hope for an F1 return and did not consider IndyCar a serious option.
Schumacher's interest grew approximately two years prior to his signing, as he learned more about the series' competitiveness. He noted that being directly involved has provided a deeper understanding of the challenges and enjoyment of driving an IndyCar. He also praised the "amazing" and "ambitious" people working in the series, highlighting the "raw motorsport environment" as a positive and distinct characteristic.
Schumacher praised the "amazing" and "ambitious" people working in the series, highlighting the "raw motorsport environment" as a positive and distinct characteristic.
IndyCar is a spec series, which is the highest class of American open-wheel car racing. Dallara builds the chassis, and Honda and Chevrolet supply the engines.
Driving Impressions and Car Comparison
Schumacher completed two road course tests: one at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course in October and another two-day test at Sebring in February. He indicated that the preparation for the Indianapolis road course test, involving extensive detailed discussions, marked a moment where he felt a significant connection to IndyCar.
He described the IndyCar as "pretty fun to drive," though he also mentioned it feels "a little underpowered here and there."
When asked to compare it to previous machinery, Schumacher likened it to "an F2 car, just with better tyres."
He suggested that adding "100 or 200 horsepower more and got the weight down a little bit" would improve it, anticipating similar changes in future car designs. He also acknowledged ongoing safety improvements in the series.
Addressing Oval Racing Concerns
Schumacher stated that concerns about oval racing were the primary factor preventing him from immediately committing to an IndyCar move. Another former Haas F1 driver, Romain Grosjean, initially avoided oval events in IndyCar due to safety concerns. Schumacher's uncle, Ralf Schumacher, has also publicly questioned Mick's transition to IndyCar.
The Indy road course test provided him with a positive experience, leading him to seriously consider the series. His remaining hesitation was solely about understanding how ovals function, including safety measurements and recent advancements.
After discussions with his future Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing teammate Graham Rahal and IndyCar President Jay Frye, a key figure in IndyCar safety, Schumacher gained a comprehensive understanding of the series' ambitions. This alleviated his concerns, confirming he would be well-prepared for oval racing.
Schumacher subsequently completed his first oval test at Homestead-Miami Speedway, where he completed 97 laps and reached a top speed of 194 miles per hour.
The 2026 IndyCar season will include five oval rounds, with the first scheduled for Phoenix Raceway on March 7. The season begins on March 1 in St. Petersburg.