Dreyer & Reinbold Racing (DRR) has acquired a new framework that will allow it to focus on its return to full-time competition in IndyCar. This event marks its return to full competition since 2012, with the aim of rebuilding the organization from scratch, including technical alliances, driver selection, and commercial growth.
For Derek Reinbold, CEO of DRR and son of the late team owner, Dennis Reinbold, this stage represents a dream alongside the ambition that his father had throughout his life. ‘Now is the right time; not just because the framework is available, but because it was my father’s aspiration to do everything possible to return to full-time competition,’ Reinbold commented.
Strengthening the technical level
Although DRR has demonstrated its competitiveness at the Indianapolis 500, its return to full-time competition involves overcoming the lack of experience on mountain and urban circuits. Brett De Bord, president of DRR, expressed the importance of identifying new talents to strengthen the team.
‘We have been competitive at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but we have another 16 or 17 races that we must also be competitive in,’ De Bord emphasized, acknowledging the deficits in long-term development.
Hiring personnel and evaluating drivers
Expanding a limited program in Indianapolis to a full-season operation requires hiring new engineers, mechanics, and support staff. Chase Selman, team director, noted that the interest in being part of the project has been immediate.
‘My phone doesn’t stop ringing with engineers and mechanics who want to join us,’ Selman said. At the same time, he stressed that it is vital to prioritize culture before making massive hires.
Alliances with manufacturers and commercial strategy
The transition to a full-time campaign opens new commercial opportunities that were previously not viable. De Bord indicated that negotiations with original equipment manufacturers are progressing, and he will announce more details when they are ready.
‘We have hit a glass ceiling in sponsorship sales, and now we can offer a richer commercial inventory due to our new strategy,’ De Bord asserted, highlighting the importance of being able to expand collaborations with sponsors.
Testing plans and performance goals
Establishing an effective testing program at the start of the 2027 season is a priority for DRR. ‘It is crucial for us, and we need to make smart decisions,’ Selman said, aware of the limitations imposed by regulations.
DRR aims to maintain competitiveness at the Indianapolis 500, but the team acknowledges that each track presents a different challenge. Selman concluded that a Top-15 in the overall standings would be a great success in this new stage: ‘We cannot be unrealistic regarding our expectations, as it will be hard work.’
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
