The 2026 motorsport calendar is heating up with significant developments across Formula 1, IndyCar, and NASCAR, promising a thrilling year for racing enthusiasts. ESPN continues to be a key player in broadcasting these exciting series, bringing the action to a global audience.
Formula 1 Expands Reach in Latin America, US Broadcast Future Unclear
Formula 1 has solidified its presence in Latin America and the Caribbean by extending its partnership with ESPN through the end of the 2028 season. This renewed deal ensures fans in 18 countries (excluding Mexico and Brazil) will have access to every practice session, sprint, Grand Prix, and more on ESPN’s linear and digital platforms, including Disney+. This expansion comes as Formula 1 sees substantial growth in the region, with over 150 million fans. However, the future of F1 broadcasting in the United States for 2026 and beyond remains uncertain, as ESPN reportedly is not renewing its media rights deal, with reports indicating discussions between F1 and other major broadcasters such as NBC and Netflix. Apple TV has since secured the exclusive broadcasting rights for Formula 1 in the United States starting in 2026 with a five-year deal. Meanwhile, discussions on the 2026 F1 technical regulations are ongoing, with a focus on power units and aerodynamics, to make the sport more sustainable and competitive.
IndyCar Boosts Global Presence and Introduces New Venues
The 2026 IndyCar Series is set for a significant global broadcast expansion, with races available in over 200 countries and territories. ESPN will continue to provide coverage across sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, Brazil, and Mexico. New media partnerships will bring IndyCar to audiences in Brazil via Band Sport and in Korea through SBS Sport. On the track, the 2026 season will feature 18 races, including new venues such as Phoenix Raceway, the streets of Arlington, Texas, a new circuit in Markham, Ontario, and a race in Washington, D.C. The season kicks off on March 1 with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. Drivers like reigning champion Alex Palou will be looking to continue their dominance, while new talent emerges, such as rookie Caio Collet. IndyCar is also implementing changes to tire usage requirements for street circuits to enhance wheel-to-wheel action and strategic diversity.
NASCAR Revamps Schedule and Introduces Technical Changes
NASCAR is gearing up for a dynamic 2026 season with a revamped schedule and technical adjustments. The NASCAR Cup Series will visit new venues, including Chicagoland Speedway and a new event on Naval Base Coronado near San Diego. The season finale will move to Homestead-Miami Speedway, while the All-Star Race will be held at Dover Speedway. For the 2026 season, NASCAR is also increasing horsepower for Cup teams at select tracks, raising it from 670 to 750 at ovals shorter than 1.5 miles and all road courses. This change aims to enhance the racing spectacle. The first 14 Cup events of the season will be broadcast on FOX Sports. The NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (formerly Xfinity) and the Craftsman Truck Series will also see their schedules and broadcast details for the 2026 season.
This season promises a dynamic blend of familiar rivalries and exciting new challenges across all major racing disciplines.
