Scott McLaughlin, Team Penske’s IndyCar star, didn’t hold back when Formula 1 announced its 2026 calendar, slamming the decision to schedule the Canadian Grand Prix on the same day and time as the Indianapolis 500. The New Zealander, turned American citizen, a three-time Australian Supercars champion and the 2024 Indy 500 pole-sitter, voiced his frustration on X, calling out F1 for “single-handedly ruining Motorsport Christmas.”
For racing fans, Memorial Day weekend has long been a sacred tripleheader: the Monaco Grand Prix with Formula 1, Indy 500 for IndyCar, and NASCAR’s Coca-Cola 600. Moving Monaco to early June and slotting Canada in its place disrupts this cherished tradition, leaving diehard enthusiasts heartbroken by Formula 1.
McLaughlin’s tweet captured the raw disappointment felt by many. “Congrats to @f1 who single-handedly ruined Motorsport Xmas,” he wrote. “Indy 500 will be a scene next year. As well as the Coke 600. Good luck.” His words reflect a deep love for the sport and a personal sting as a driver who lives for the Indy 500’s electric atmosphere. The clash, with the Indy 500 starting at 12:45 p.m. ET and the Canadian Grand Prix at 2 p.m. ET on May 25, 2026, forces fans, sponsors, and media to choose between two iconic races—a logistical and emotional gut punch.
For American racing fans, the move feels like a slight. The Indy 500, held at the hallowed Indianapolis Motor Speedway, is a cornerstone of U.S. motorsport, drawing over 350,000 spectators. Meanwhile, F1’s growing Stateside presence—fueled by races in Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas—seems to prioritize profit over loyalty. Critics, including McLaughlin, argue F1 is capitalizing on American audiences without respecting their traditions. The Monaco-to-Canada swap suggests a focus on global expansion and revenue, sidelining the passion of fans who’ve long celebrated the Memorial Day racing marathon.
McLaughlin, who finished third in the 2024 IndyCar standings with wins at Barber, Iowa, and Milwaukee, knows the Indy 500’s weight. His pole position in 2024, with a record-breaking 234.220 mph, cemented his status as a fan favorite.
Despite a devastating crash in 2025’s Indy 500 practice, his commitment to IndyCar and its fans shines through. His outspoken critique of F1’s scheduling underscores a broader sentiment: Motorsport’s heart lies in its fans, and “Motorsports Christmas” deserved better.
Shame on you, Formula 1. Yet another missed opportunity to lend an olive branch to your newfound North American fanbase.
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IndyCar Driver Has Strong Message for Formula 1