Indianapolis, IN (February 27, 2026) – Merlo America will expand its partnership with INDY NXT by Firestone driver James Roe in 2026, stepping up to a full-season program as Roe joins Chip Ganassi Racing for the upcoming championship campaign. Merlo will be featured on Roe’s No. 8 entry at each round of the 2026 INDY NXT season, representing an expanded partnership commitment as Roe continues his climb toward the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.

Beyond the racetrack, Roe will also represent Merlo AMERICA as a featured guest at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada, taking place March 3–7. As part of Merlo’s interactive booth experience, attendees will have the opportunity to test their skills on racing simulators and compete head-to-head against Roe throughout the week.

“Beyond excited to have Merlo aboard for the full season,” said Roe. “Our partnership immediately clicked last year, with a great contingent of folks who came to our Milwaukee race, along with a visit to their HQ in North Carolina. I look forward to integrating them into our racing world even further.”

Merlo America represents the Merlo Group in the U.S., supporting its Dealer Partner Network with versatile machines, a wide array of attachments and expert product support across the construction, agriculture and forestry industries. Merlo Global is a family-owned original equipment manufacturer based in Cuneo, Italy, with more than 60 years of precision engineering.

“We are thrilled to partner with James Roe for the upcoming season,” said Jennifer Brigman, Vice President of Strategy and Operations. “James’s passion for our industry and his ability to connect motorsport safety, innovation, and technology experiences to the challenges and needs of our partners is impressive. We couldn’t ask for a better partnership, and personally, I can’t wait to see him demonstrate his passion and knowledge at CONEXPO with the entire Merlo America team.”

Roe enters the 2026 INDY NXT season with multiple podium finishes, a pole position and a track lap record at Iowa Speedway to his name. In addition to his open-wheel focus, Roe also competes in endurances races in the IMSA Weathertech Sports Car Championship, and recently completed a full season with the Asian Le Mans Series.

The INDY NXT by Firestone season is broadcast on FOX Sports platforms, primarily FS1, with select races on FS2. Live coverage includes all races, plus practice and qualifying sessions on FS1, FS2, and the FOX Sports App. International viewers can watch via Sky Sports F1 and INDYCAR LIVE.

MEDIA CONTACT: 
Liza Markle
liza@jamesroejr.com