Juncos Hollinger Racing will return to INDY NXT by Firestone in 2026, reaffirming the team’s longstanding commitment to preparing the next generation of top-level racing talent through the INDYCAR development series.
The decision follows a pause in early 2025, when the team chose to concentrate resources on its two-car NTT INDYCAR SERIES program. That decision was taken during a critical period of growth and consolidation, with a clear intention to rejoin INDY NXT when timing and conditions were right.
“I’m very happy to announce our return to INDY NXT,” said Ricardo Juncos (photo, above), team founder and co-owner. “Since 2015, we’ve enjoyed great success in this series, helping develop many talented drivers through our program. Now, after completing our fourth consecutive season in INDYCAR, we believe we can offer an even stronger pathway through our NXT team.
“By combining our proven track record in NXT with the experience we’ve gained in INDYCAR – not only on the sporting side, but also in technical development and RCD – we’re creating a significant advantage for our program. Our primary focus is to give our drivers every tool they need to rise to the pinnacle of INDYCAR.”
JHR has a proud history in junior open-wheel categories, having claimed multiple championships and played a key role in advancing the careers of numerous drivers who compete at the highest levels of the sport. The team earned two INDY NXT championships, in 2015 and 2017. The team also recorded 18 wins, 18 pole positions, and 51 podium finishes in NXT competition between 2015 and 2021.
“Our return to INDY NXT is a clear statement of intent – we’re committed to supporting INDYCAR’S future by developing the next generation of top-tier talent,” Team Principal Dave O’Neill said. “Juncos Hollinger Racing has been part of INDY NXT before, but this time, we’re returning with purpose.
“Like every area of our program, we want to invest in the future of open-wheel racing. This is about progression – creating a meaningful, competitive platform where young drivers can grow, learn, and ultimately make their mark at the highest level of the sport. We look forward to revealing an exciting lineup that will carry our vision forward.”
Further details about the team’s INDY NXT by Firestone plans, including driver announcements and program structure, will be shared later.