Indy 500 qualifying format revamped for 2026

IndyCar announced a four‑round overhaul of the Indianapolis 500 qualifying format for the 110th running, with 33 cars and no bumping. Day 1 (May 16) will lock in positions 16–33, Day 2 will combine a Final 15, Top 12, and a Firestone Fast Six for a final four‑lap run to decide pole, with the Fast Six session around 6:35 pm EST and the pole winner earning $100,000 and front‑row starting position. The article also provides the full weekend schedule and progression rules for drivers aiming to line up on the front row.