(Photo credit: Kristin Enzor)

Josh Pierson, an accomplished young American driver who has been a 2026 Indy NXT standout, signed a multiyear deal to compete in the IndyCar Series for AJ Foyt Racing starting in 2027, the team announced Tuesday.

'Racing in IndyCar has been my dream for as long as I can remember,' said Pierson, who, at 16, became a Guinness World Records holder by becoming the youngest driver to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. 'The variety of racing I've done has all been in preparation for this incredible opportunity.'

Pierson's varied background includes local and international karting, junior formula racing, international sports cars and open-wheel competition in Indy NXT.

The 20-year-old has notched race wins and podium finishes in the World Endurance Championship, Asian Le Mans Series, IMSA and Indy NXT. This year, he started on the front row in each of the final three races of the Indy NXT season, including two pole positions, and at Milwaukee set a qualifying record previously held by new teammate Dennis Hauger.

Hauger will race in the No. 14 Chevrolet representing Homes For Our Troops, while Pierson will drive the No. 4 car with a sponsor to be named.

'I've been watching Josh closely for the past several seasons. Few drivers at his age have his depth of experience, and his maturity and work ethic are remarkable,' said Larry Foyt, president of AJ Foyt Racing.

'Over the past year, he impressed us in multiple tests in a Panoz DP01 Champ Car alongside current IndyCar drivers, and again in our Chevy-powered car at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course. I believe in Josh, and we're excited to be part of his continued development,' Foyt added.

The FIA gold-rated driver acknowledged the history of the team he's joining. In 2027, it will commemorate the 50th anniversary of A.J. Foyt's historic fourth Indianapolis 500 victory.

'Being a part of AJ Foyt Racing, a team with incredible history, means the world to me. I'm excited about what Larry and the entire team are building for the future,' Pierson said. 'I'm grateful for their confidence in me and look forward to my first NTT IndyCar Series green flag at St. Pete.'

--Field Level Media