IndyCar's New Officiating Board: A Step Towards Fair Play
Starting in 2026, IndyCar is set to introduce a new independent officiating board to oversee both the IndyCar Series and the Indy NXT development series. This board will operate under a newly formed non-profit organization, IndyCar Officiating, Inc.
Key Responsibilities of the Board
- Hiring a Managing Director of Officiating: This individual will have full control over officiating, including:
- Hiring race control and technical inspection personnel.
- Enforcing the rulebooks for both series.
- Most current officials will retain their roles but will now work under IndyCar Officiating, Inc. instead of Penske Entertainment.
Selection of Board Members
The three board members were chosen after months of discussion:
- Ray Evernham and Raj Nair were voted in by IndyCar Series team owners.
- Ronan Morgan was selected by the FIA, the governing body for many international motorsport events.
Industry Reactions
Chip Ganassi (Owner, Reigning Championship-Winning Team)
"This was a thorough process, and I am confident in the independent officiating board that has been elected by the team ownership in our sport. I look forward to their guidance as they hire a managing director."
FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem
"IndyCar is an American icon, and I am proud of the relationship we are building together. The FIA's expertise and IndyCar's innovation will support the series' growth."
Background and Context
Calls for an independent officiating board began shortly after Penske Entertainment acquired IndyCar and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Concerns arose regarding the influence of Penske Entertainment and its owner, Roger Penske, who also owns a competing team.
- In May 2024, after Team Penske received penalties for rule violations, IndyCar president Doug Boles announced plans for an independent board.
- In August 2024, the FIA observed IndyCar's race control operations, marking the first steps toward the new board.
Remaining Connection to Penske Entertainment
While the new board is a step toward independence, salaries for officials will still be paid by Penske Entertainment.
