Alexander Rossi shares important update on IndyCar’s latest testing for the new 2028 car after Honda pulled out of Indycar next year over the controversial Roger Penske scandal
In a pivotal moment for the NTT IndyCar Series, veteran driver Alexander Rossi has provided crucial insights into the latest testing sessions for the highly anticipated 2028 chassis, amid turbulent times following Honda’s decision to exit the series after 2026. The 2016 Indianapolis 500 winner, now competing for Ed Carpenter Racing, participated in a two-day test at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on October 21 and 22, evaluating components that could shape the future of American open-wheel racing. Rossi’s feedback highlights both progress and challenges as IndyCar navigates a manufacturer crisis exacerbated by ongoing controversies surrounding series owner Roger Penske.
The tests involved four drivers, including reigning champion Alex Palou, Pato O’Ward, and two-time Indy 500 winner Takuma Sato. While Palou and O’Ward focused on Firestone tire development, Rossi and Sato assessed new brake systems slated for 2026 and speculative dampers for the 2028 car. Rossi described the brake upgrades as a success, noting reduced drag and improved stability even after extended runs. “Those are going ahead for 2026, which is great news,” he shared on his podcast, Off Track with Hinch and Rossi. However, the spec dampers—intended to cut costs and weight in the lighter 2028 chassis—fell short. Both drivers independently concluded the parts lacked the desired performance, prompting IndyCar to reconsider their implementation. “It was a safe test… everyone kind of came to the same conclusion,” Rossi explained, emphasizing the series’ due diligence in exploring cost-saving measures.
IndyCar’s push for the 2028 car comes as the series grapples with significant upheaval. Announced in June 2025, the new Dallara-built chassis aims to shed 85-100 pounds, offsetting hybrid unit weight while enhancing safety with an integrated aeroscreen and a lighter Xtrac gearbox. Upgraded 2.4-liter twin-turbo V6 engines will deliver more torque, with extended hybrid deployment for better racing across ovals, roads, and streets. On-track testing is planned for early 2026, with a public unveiling hoped for before year’s end. IndyCar president Doug Boles expressed optimism, stating the design appeals to fans and teams alike, upholding safety while boosting competition.
Yet, these advancements are overshadowed by Honda’s impending departure, set for after the 2026 season. The Japanese manufacturer, a staple since 1994 and supplier to over half the grid, cited skyrocketing costs—reaching eight figures annually—as the primary reason. Honda’s concerns intensified following multiple Team Penske scandals under Roger Penske’s dual ownership of the series and his eponymous team. The most recent, during 2025 Indy 500 qualifying, involved illegally modified rear attenuators on Josef Newgarden and Will Power’s cars, leading to disqualifications and Penske firing top executives, including team president Tim Cindric. This followed a 2024 push-to-pass manipulation that stripped victories and eroded trust.
Honda officials have repeatedly labeled Penske’s infractions “not helpful,” with reports suggesting the scandals tipped the scales toward exit. Despite Penske’s efforts to retain Honda through contract talks and promises of independent oversight, the manufacturer appears committed to departing, potentially eyeing NASCAR or expanded Formula 1 involvement. Chevrolet remains engaged, but a single-engine formula looms as a cost-cutting fallback, though it risks monotony in a series priding itself on manufacturer rivalry.
Rossi, a Honda-powered driver for much of his career before switching teams, remains pragmatic. His test role underscores IndyCar’s reliance on driver input amid uncertainty. “We’re doing our due diligence,” he noted, acknowledging the dampers’ failure but praising the collaborative debriefs with engineers and supplier Öhlins. Upcoming tests, including November 6-7 at Phoenix Raceway for the series’ 2026 return, will feature Rossi alongside Scott Dixon, preparing for oval resurgence.
The 2028 car represents IndyCar’s bid for relevance in a hybrid era, but Honda’s pullout threatens grid size and budgets. Teams like Chip Ganassi Racing and Andretti Global, heavily Honda-aligned, face engine swaps or reduced support. Penske has explored third manufacturers like Toyota or Porsche, but none have committed. An independent governing body, free of Penske influence, is under consideration to restore credibility.
As November unfolds with quieter on-track action, the paddock buzzes with 2026 silly season rumors—Mick Schumacher testing with Rahal Letterman Lanigan, Rinus VeeKay’s Juncos move—and charter system implications. Rossi’s updates offer a glimmer of technical hope, but the Penske scandals and Honda’s exit cast long shadows. IndyCar must innovate swiftly to emerge stronger, ensuring the 2028 revolution isn’t derailed by today’s turmoil. With testing ramping up, drivers like Rossi will be key in steering the series forward—literally and figuratively.
