After completing the final pre-season test this week at the Miami International Autodrome with Cusick Morgan Motorsports, Nicolas Stati is set to make his debut in INDY NXT by Firestone at the season-opening Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, taking place February 27–March 1.
Stati arrives with a diverse international background, including competition in the Formula Regional Oceania Championship, Formula Regional Americas Championship, and GB3 Championship, among many other international series. That experience has required him to adapt quickly to new circuits, a skill that will be tested again this weekend as he tackles the Streets of St. Petersburg for the first time.
Both Stati and the team view their 2026 campaign as a foundation-building season focused on steady progress and consistency. While maintaining a competitive mindset, Stati has set measured goals for his rookie year, targeting top-ten finishes while working closely with engineers and crew to accelerate his development and establish himself within the INDY NXT field.
“I’ve been training hard all offseason,” commented Stati. “Between simulator work, time in the gym, and getting on track whenever possible, I feel prepared heading into St. Petersburg. It will be great to finally line up against the field and show what we can do. I’m excited to begin this season with Cusick Morgan Motorsports as we start our INDY NXT journey together.”
The season opens on one of the most distinctive circuits on the calendar. St. Petersburg is a fast, technical 1.8-mile street course that features airport runway sections and tight downtown corners across 14 turns, demanding precision, confidence, and race-long focus.
A single practice session kicks off the race weekend on Friday, with Practice 2 and Qualifying following on Saturday. Stati makes his official INDY NXT by Firestone debut in the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on Sunday at 10:00 AM ET, with live coverage on FS1.
Stay connected with Nicolas Stati by following his social media channels for updates, results, and announcements. Additional team details can be found at CusickMotorsports.com.
Photo Credit: RTD Media