Palou pushes IndyCar’s IR-28 chassis to the limit in rugged Sebring test

IndyCar's new IR-28 chassis underwent a rigorous durability test at Sebring International Raceway on Monday, with five-time champion Alex Palou driving Honda-powered Chip Ganassi Racing's car. The test was the first real-world evaluation of the chassis, which previously only faced smoothness tests at Indianapolis and road courses.

Sebring's mix of concrete and asphalt proved ideal for challenging the IR-28's strength and durability, simulating the conditions of temporary street circuits that will make up a third of the 2026 race calendar. Palou emphasized the importance of the test, stating, "We're trying to test it as tough as we can. It's a bumpy course.

Before we produce all the new cars, we want to make sure it passes this stress test and that it's good to go for racing." The session focused on driver comfort and cooling, with Palou noting significant improvements in airflow thanks to the IR-28's strategically placed, integrated air ducts. During the testing, Palou managed the IR-28's first on-track overtake, overtaking Kyle Kirkwood (Andretti Global) who was testing Firestone Firehawk tires.

Palou expressed excitement about the car's performance and safety improvements, stating, "I'm very excited. I like the looks of it. It seems safer. It looks like it's going to be much better racing because we're going to be able to follow much closer on road, street and ovals."