IndyCar unveils IR-28 prototype as Alexander Rossi completes first test at IMS

At the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Alexander Rossi completed the maiden validation of IndyCar's upcoming IR-28 chassis, the model set to debut in 2028. The 14-turn, 2.439-mile road course run was halted after 50 minutes due to a storm warning, but Rossi managed several installation laps and a longer stint in mixed-dry conditions. He praised the car’s predictable handling, increased wing surface and spacious cockpit, noting its smoothness comparable to high-end formula cars.

The prototype was powered by a 2.4-liter “Mule Engine,” a placeholder pending the series’ future hybrid system. Engineers from Dallara, Motion Applied, Firestone, Ilmor, Custom AXIS, Xtrac, PFC Brakes and BBS Wheels participated in the test, with Tino Belli overseeing aerodynamic development. Rossi highlighted the build quality and expressed pride in being the first to drive the new machine, while acknowledging that further development remains ahead.