Subject to IndyCar’s approval, DRR’s goal is a full-time comeback for the first time since 2012, with the team running a single car entry.
It marks the first sale of an IndyCar charter since the entry system was introduced by the series in 2025.
DRR’s return comes shortly after the passing of founder and owner Dennis Reinbold at age 65 in mid-June.
“I want to thank Bobby Rahal, Mike Lanigan, David Letterman and Jay Frye for the way they approached this from our very first conversation,” said Derek Reinbold, DRR CEO.
“They treated this as a partnership between two organisations that want to see each other succeed, and this announcement today reflects that.
“The NTT IndyCar Series is in the strongest position it has been in for decades, and that is a direct result of Roger Penske’s stewardship and leadership.
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“The growth of this series, on the track and off, made this the right moment for our team to return to full-time racing.
“My dad built Dreyer & Reinbold Racing and poured his life into it, and our family has been part of the Speedway for four generations. Competing for a full season again is the truest way we can honour his legacy, and we intend to make him proud.”
DRR recently competed in its 27th Indianapolis 500 with Conor Daly finishing 12th and Jack Harvey 22nd.
The family’s history with the speedway dates back a century, with team owner Dennis’ grandfather Floyd Dreyer serving as a mechanic for the Duesenberg team in the 1920s.
RLL currently fields Graham Rahal, Louis Foster and Mick Schumacher in its three-car team.
Although Schumacher is reportedly the only one of those three out of contract, the German this week said there’s a “high chance” he’ll return.
RLL co-owner Bobby Rahal commended Dennis’ commitment to IndyCar and the team before his passing, and detailed the strategic decision of downsizing to two entries.
“I have always had tremendous respect for Dennis Reinbold, both as a fellow team owner and as a fellow automobile dealer,” Rahal said.
“His dedication to IndyCar and the legacy he built over many years earned the respect of everyone in the paddock.
“As we evaluated the long-term direction of our organisation, we made the strategic decision to return our full-time program to two cars beginning in 2027.
“We believe this positions our team to be able to maximize our level of competition while allowing us to focus our resources as we prepare for the introduction of the new car.
“Dennis had expressed interest in acquiring a charter from the time the charter program was established, and we had several discussions with him before his passing.
“We’re pleased we were able to complete this transaction, and we can’t think of a more deserving organization to receive the charter.
“It reflects Dennis’ longstanding commitment to the sport and helps ensure that legacy continues.”
DRR will confirm further details of its full-time return in the lead up to the new season.
The NTT IndyCar Series continues its season on August 9 with the Grand Prix of Portland.
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