Chip Ganassi Racing’s expansion to four Indy NXT entries features the return of its two drivers from 2025, an inbound NXT veteran, and a newcomer making a big step up to the IndyCar Series’ main development series.
Bryce Aron and Niels Koolen are the continuity for CGR, and they’re joined by James Roe, who spent the last three NXT seasons with Andretti Global. Carson Etter joins as the lone rookie in the program.
“It feels like ‘thank you’ isn’t enough, but I’d like to give a huge thank you to Chip Ganassi Racing for this opportunity to compete in Indy NXT by Firestone,” said Etter, who started in off-road racing, rose to the USF Championship’s F2000 series in 2024, and attends Arizona State University. “I’ve dreamed of racing with this team since I was a kid and I don’t think I’ve stopped smiling since they called and said I’m a part of the Ganassi family.
“This team has a culture that will push you past what you thought you were capable of, even in practice, and turn it into results on race day. I’m fired up to help carry that momentum forward. Chip Ganassi Racing sets the bar high. There are no excuses, only results, and that’s exactly the environment I want to be in. We’re coming in hungry, putting in the work, and making sure every weekend means something. I can’t wait to get after it in 2026.”
Roe hopes being part of CGR’s Indy NXT effort will get him closer to achieving his main goal.
“I’m incredibly excited to join Chip Ganassi Racing and take this next step in my journey towards IndyCar,” Roe said. “Competing with one of the most successful teams in the sport as they grow their Indy NXT program is a unique chance to combine my experience in the series with their championship-level culture. The IndyCar paddock is where I want to be and I’m more determined than ever. The goal is to create something special together this season.”
“Chip Ganassi Racing is glad to have Carson and James join the team with Bryce and Niels as we expand our Indy NXT by Firestone efforts in 2026,” said CGR team manager Taylor Kiel. “We are putting in a lot of hard work as we try to fight for wins and podiums in our second year back on the NXT grid, and I’m looking forward to see what we accomplish.”