The NTT INDYCAR SERIES returns to the rolling hills of Leeds, Alabama, this weekend for the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix. As the fourth round of the 2026 season, this event marks the first permanent road course on the calendar following a high-intensity opening stretch on street circuits and ovals. Known as the “Augusta National of Motorsports” for its pristine landscaping and impeccable facilities, Barber Motorsports Park offers a grueling physical challenge for drivers with its 2.3-mile layout and 17 flowing, high-speed turns.
Heading into Sunday’s race, all eyes are on the championship standings, which currently see Kyle Kirkwood at the top with 126 points. Kirkwood is coming off a massive victory at the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington, but he faces a stiff challenge from defending race winner Alex Palou. Palou dominated the field at Barber last year, winning by a staggering 16-second margin. Historically, this track has been a stronghold for Team Penske, which has claimed eight victories here over the years, and Scott McLaughlin looks poised to continue 그 momentum after leading the opening practice sessions this weekend.
The event isn’t just about the main race; the weekend is packed with a full festival atmosphere. Fans can enjoy the INDY NXT developmental series, which serves as the primary curtain-raiser on Sunday morning. Off-track, the Fan Zone features a Ferris wheel, autograph sessions, and the “Gear Up Your Career” showcase. A local highlight for 2026 includes Alabama football legend A.J. McCarron, who will lead the field to the green flag from the “Fastest Seat in INDYCAR,” riding in the series’ custom two-seater.
From a technical perspective, Barber is a “high-downforce” circuit where aerodynamic efficiency is king. The track features 80 feet of elevation change, most notably at the “Museum Turn” (Turn 8), which requires precise braking while descending. Because the “racing ribbon” is relatively narrow at 45 feet wide, qualifying on Saturday is arguably more critical here than at any other road course. Drivers like Pato O’Ward, who holds the track record, will be fighting for every millisecond to secure a front-row start and avoid being buried in the mid-pack “procession.”
For those following from home, the main event is scheduled for Sunday, March 29, with the green flag expected at 1:17 PM ET. The race will be broadcast live on FOX, marking a significant year for the series’ new media rights deal. Fans can also catch practice and qualifying sessions on FS1 and FS2 throughout the weekend, or listen to the live call via the INDYCAR Radio Network and SiriusXM Channel 209.
IndyCar Weekend Schedule Barber Motorsports Park
March 27
2:30 pm Indy NXT Practice
3:30 pm NTT IndyCar Series Practice Groups, TV/Streaming: FS2, Fox One
March 28
10:00 am Indy NXT Qualifying, TV/Streaming: FS2, Fox One
11:00 am NTT IndyCar Series Practice 2 Groups, TV/Streaming: FS1, Fox One
1:00 pm Indy NXT Race No. 1, TV/Streaming: FS1, Fox One
2:30 pm NTT IndyCar Series Qualifying, TV/Streaming: FS1, Fox One
March 29
10:00 am NTT IndyCar Series Warmup, TV/Streaming: FS1, Fox One
11:00 am Indy NXT Race No. 2, TV/Streaming: FS1, Fox One
1:00 pm NTT IndyCar Series Race, TV/Streaming: FOX, Fox One
