Alex Palou and Alexander Rossi tested IndyCar's 2028 prototype at Indianapolis Motor Speedway's road course and left impressed with what the series is building. Both drivers put the new entry through its paces on the 2.439-mile, 14-turn layout and came away feeling positive about the direction of the machinery.
This test represents the first real-world evaluation of the next-generation IndyCar, the culmination of years of development work by the series. Getting feedback from two proven competitors like Palou and Rossi matters. Palou won the 2021 championship and won again last year. Rossi brings veteran experience across multiple series. When drivers of that caliber express satisfaction with prototype testing, teams and fans pay attention.
The 2028 cars are still years away from hitting the track in competition, but early driver reaction sets the tone for how the paddock receives the new generation. A smooth transition into new regulations starts with hardware that the guys behind the wheel actually want to drive. Palou and Rossi's approval signals that IndyCar may have nailed the fundamentals on this one.