iRacing Studios has announced a standalone Indycar game launching in the second half of 2026 for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. The announcement marks the first dedicated Indycar title in over two decades and represents another major expansion for the iRacing Studios brand, and a new lease on life for a standalone Indycar game after Motorsports Games stillborn project.
Built on Proven Foundation
The new INDYCAR title will be built from the ground up using iRacing Studios’ proprietary Orontes engine, the same game engine powering other successful releases like NASCAR 25 and the World of Outlaws Dirt Racing game.
While developed by a dedicated team, the game will incorporate car and track assets, technology, and driving characteristics from other iRacing Studios products, leveraging the decades of gained experience from games such as NR2003 and iRacing.
Professional Driver Involvement
Although iRacing is already renounced as a training took, they’ve decided to bring on real-world INDYCAR teams and drivers to actively participate in development, including Team Penske star Scott McLaughlin.
The Australian driver, who has won seven races since transitioning to INDYCAR full-time in 2021, brings both professional racing and years on competing on iRacing.
In the announcement, McLaughlin said. “I’m thrilled to be a part of the development process for iRacing Studios’ new INDYCAR title,”, “It’s an honor to work with a team that has developed such amazing products to help deliver INDYCAR’s first dedicated title in quite some time.”
Market Timing
The 2026 release timing positions the INDYCAR game strategically within iRacing Studios’ expanding portfolio. With NASCAR 25 launching October 14th, 2025, and iRacing Arcade bringing accessibility to the brand, the INDYCAR title will arrive as part of a comprehensive console racing game ecosystem and as apart of iRacing’s ever changing market strategy.
Long-Term Partnership Extension
iRacing Studio’s, the developers of the new game, and INDYCAR have signed a long-term licensing agreement that extends beyond just the standalone game. The partnership also ensures INDYCAR’s continued presence in the main iRacing simulation service, maintaining both PC and console gaming options for years to come.
“INDYCAR fans have long been clamoring for a standalone title for consoles, and we’re excited to give them what they’re looking for in 2026,” said Tony Gardner, the president of iRacing.com Motorsport Simulations.
The Bottom Line
iRacing Studios’ standalone INDYCAR game represents more than just another racing title – it’s the return of dedicated open-wheel console gaming after a two-decade absence. With professional driver involvement, proven technology, and the backing of INDYCAR’s official licensing, the 2026 release could fill a significant gap in racing game offerings.
For INDYCAR fans who have waited years for authentic console representation, the second half of 2026 can’t come soon enough.
If you would like to read the original announcement, you can check it out here.