IndyCar Eliminates Open Entries Except Indy 500 Starting In 2027

Felix Rosenqvist, Meyer Shank Racing w/Curb Agajanian Honda during the NTT INDYCAR Series Acura Grand Prix Of Long Beach on April 19, 2026 in Long Beach, California. (Photo by Perry Nelson/Lumen via Getty Images) Lumen via Getty Images IndyCar will do away with “Open Entries” for every race on the NTT IndyCar Series except for the annual 33-car Indianapolis 500 beginning in 2027. Forbes Sports Money was able to obtain a statement from IndyCar on April 25.

To keep the news in proper perspective, with the exception of Prema Racing in 2025, the entry lists for all IndyCar races other than the Indianapolis 500 hold IndyCar Charters. It’s been quite a while since privateers have entered regular IndyCar Series events. “Beginning with the 2027 IndyCar Series season, entry fields at all races outside of the Indianapolis 500 will be limited to chartered teams only,” the IndyCar statement said.

“This decision was reached after thoughtful consideration with key stakeholders and, in particular, series suppliers who are making plans for the upcoming season as all parties look to build the series’ health and on-track competition. ” Reasons For The Decision Key to this announcement is a new car and engine combination will be used in 2028. Much of the focus from series suppliers, in 2027, will be on that.

Also, in 2028, Chevy and Honda are both able to utilize Charters, so the field is expected to increase to 27 beginning with that season. Currently, there are 25 Charters that were granted by IndyCar. The Charter system is a way to guarantee participation in regular NTT IndyCar Series events while sharing in revenues with IndyCar.