In the world of IndyCar racing, there's a fascinating enigma that many fans have been buzzing about: Dale Coyne Racing has yet to announce who will join rookie Dennis Hauger in their lineup for the upcoming season. For months, speculation has swirled around various potential candidates to fill this important role.
Recently, during a pre-season media day, some observant fans think they may have caught a glimpse of Romain Grosjean lurking in the background of a video shared on IndyCar's social media channels. This theory gained traction when pictures of Grosjean in a plain race suit—one without any sponsorship logos—emerged on Getty Images, confirming his attendance at the event.
Behind the scenes, this situation has become somewhat of an open secret. Various commentators have lightheartedly referred to "TBA" (to be announced) seen at the media session, including ex-IndyCar driver Connor Daly, who said, "It was obviously Romain Grosjean who was there as the TBA. None of the media were allowed to talk to him. Technically, it seems like there is not a deal done there yet. So it’s semi-mysterious, but also, it’s very obvious. I don’t know if it’s Dale Coyne’s favorite thing to do is be last-minute on everything, but it’s been interesting how it worked out."
Daly himself has been part of this year’s silly season drama but currently finds himself without a ride. After spending time with Juncos Hollinger Racing in 2025, he was replaced by former Dale Coyne Racing driver Rinus VeeKay, who will be teaming up with returning driver Sting Ray Robb.
Despite not having a confirmed seat right now, Daly remains optimistic about his chances of racing at the season opener in St. Petersburg. However, the identity of his potential teammate remains uncertain, particularly regarding Prema Racing's future, as neither Callum Ilott nor Robert Shwartzman showed up for the media day, raising questions about whether the team will participate in St. Petersburg.
Daly elaborated, "I’ve obviously been in a very difficult spot because I am currently without a ride, but I can honestly tell you that even today, there is not a zero percent chance that I am doing more than one race. There is definitely a percentage of a chance that I could be at St. Pete, there is a percentage of a chance that I could be testing in two weeks. It’s that much of a chaos behind the scenes. What you see on the outside might not be actually what’s going on. It’s just been messy. It’s the best word that I can use for it. You will see me in an IndyCar at some point. We’ll see what happens. There is without a doubt still a chance that you might see me at St. Petersburg in a race car. Who knows? It would be crazy, but it’s not impossible currently."
Meanwhile, Hauger is currently focusing on his own development as he prepares for his rookie season with Dale Coyne Racing. He shared his thoughts, saying, "I’ve been working with myself, what I need to do, as I did last year in Indy NXT. Not focusing too much on the stuff around I can’t control. For me, whoever it’s going to be, I’m sure I will be in good hands. Hopefully, it will be someone I can fight with well in terms of looking at data. Just gives you more access obviously to adapt and evolve and learn as a driver in my first IndyCar season."
The excitement builds as IndyCar gears up to kick off its season on the streets of St. Petersburg from February 27 to March 1. Stay tuned for updates, as the racing world eagerly awaits to see who will fill the remaining seat and how the unfolding drama will shape the upcoming races!
