IndyCar’s AJ Foyt Racing Hires Toby Sowery As Reserve Driver

Toby Sowery, the recently named Reserve Driver for AJ Foyt Racing. IndyCar Photo Reserve drivers are usually part of the Formula 1 World Championship as teams lock onto extra drivers to stand by for primary drivers or help out in testing throughout the season. Recently, reserve drivers have become a part of the NTT IndyCar Series, usually to help guide an inexperienced driver, or to formalize an agreement with a younger driver to learn the inside of racing from outside the cockpit.

Beginning with this weekend’s Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, AJ Foyt Racing will utilize the Reserve Driver concept as British racing driver Toby Sowery has been appointed the Reserve Driver for AJ Foyt Racing for the 2026 NTT IndyCar Series season. AJ Foyt Racing’s Broader Focus On Driver Development The appointment is part of a broader strategic focus on driver development as AJ Foyt Racing continues to evolve its program both within IndyCar and across feeder racing series. It further strengthens AJ Foyt Racing’s driver structure at a time of increasing competition and technical demand within the NTT IndyCar Series, while positioning Sowery within one of the sport’s most iconic teams as he continues to build towards full-time opportunities.

Larry Foyt (Photo by Brian Spurlock/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) Icon Sportswire via Getty Images "My dad, A. J. Foyt, built this team’s name on grit, risk, and winning—and I’m honored he trusts me to carry it forward," said team President Larry Foyt.

"We’re not here to protect the legacy—we’re here to reignite it. With Santino (Ferrucci) and very promising rookie Caio Collet leading the charge, this team is pushing forward with purpose. “Toby Sowery will be pivotal to what we’re building—his versatility, voice, and background will help develop our next generation while opening the door to a new wave of partners and fans.