AJ Foyt Racing will return to INDY NXT by Firestone beginning in 2026 with a two-car effort backed by a strategic alliance with HMD Motorsports.

While AJ Foyt Racing will maintain its brand and identity, the new program emphasizes the team’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of INDYCAR talent. By working with not only drivers but also crew members looking to make a move to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES earlier in their careers, the organization aims to provide a more integrated and structured approach to preparing all for the top level of American open-wheel racing.

“This has been a long time coming,” AJ Foyt Racing Team President Larry Foyt (photo, above) said. “We’ve played a significant role in developing drivers who have gone on to compete at the top level of INDYCAR. We felt it was time to get involved in the INDY NXT by Firestone program again. Forming a technical and strategic alliance with HMD Motorsports provides the experience and technical support to make our INDY NXT program as strong and effective as possible.”

AJ Foyt Racing has competed and won races and championships in the INDYCAR SERIES since its founding in 1965. The addition of an INDY NXT by Firestone program marks AJ Foyt Racing’s second foray into the INDYCAR developmental ranks. In 2002, A.J. Foyt IV won the first INDY NXT by Firestone championship. Ed Carpenter drove for the team in 2003 and won the Freedom 100, the series' inaugural race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

HMD Motorsports brings extensive experience in INDY NXT by Firestone to the new alliance. Since joining the series in 2019 and competing full time from 2021 onward, the team has earned both a team title and two driver championships, multiple Rookie of the Year honors and promoted several drivers into the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. HMD will provide technical support and series insight to AJ Foyt Racing's INDY NXT program.

“We are thrilled to announce this strategic alliance with AJ Foyt Racing,” HMD Motorsports Team President Mike Maurini said. “This is the next step in making the pathway to INDYCAR more accessible to talented drivers throughout the INDY NXT paddock. Together, our teams will combine experience and resources to help develop the next generation of competitive drivers.”

Further details on AJ Foyt Racing’s driver lineup and program will be announced in the coming months.