Photo: Penske Entertainment / Travis Hinkle
Salvador de Alba will remain in Indy Nxt for a third season this year, ending his association with Andretti to join HMD Motorsports’ line-up.
The 26-year-old Mexican contested his rookie campaign with the joint Andretti Cape operation, then he moved into Andretti Global’s main line-up for 2025.
Although he came fifth in the standings in each of the last two seasons, de Alba’s sophomore campaign featured 87 more points as he followed up consistent top-five results in the first half of the year with a podium, a maiden victory at the Milwaukee Mile and then pole position for the final race at Nashville Superspeedway which he finished second in.
“The past two seasons in Indy Nxt have been a tremendous learning experience, and I’m excited to begin a new chapter with HMD Motorsports,” said de Alba.
“I gained strong momentum toward the end of last season, and I’m eager to carry that into 2026. The team has already shown incredible dedication to my success, and I’m grateful for all the support that’s helped me get here. Together, we’ll keep pushing towards IndyCar.”
Prior to Indy Nxt, de Alba was a NASCAR Mexico champion and then did two seasons in USF Pro 2000 to adapt to open-wheel cars. He won two oval races there, and in 2025 was the fastest driver in all of junior single-seaters around ovals.
“Salvador is an outstanding addition to our lineup and exactly what we were looking for heading into 2026,” HMD’s team president Mike Maurini said. “He brings valuable experience, a strong work ethic and a clear determination to succeed. We’re excited to support his continued development and help him reach the next level.”
There are now four drivers in HMD’s 2026 line-up, with de Alba the only non-rookie.