While most of the attention this past weekend was fixed on the annual Formula 1 U.S. Grand Prix in Austin, something equally significant unfolded at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, up north. Maserati returned to the Brickyard, marking the U.S. debut of the Maserati GT2, a machine that brings the Trident’s century-old racing legacy full circle.
The GT2 arrived fresh from its championship-winning season in the Fanatec GT2 European Series, wearing a special tribute livery that harks back to the 1939 Maserati 8CTF. That car, driven by Wilbur Shaw, famously conquered the Indianapolis 500 back in 1939 and 1940.
The new GT2 pays homage to that legacy and connection with the circuit, while embracing modern-day lightweight carbon fiber construction, advanced aerodynamics, and Maserati’s unmistakable design. Now type-certified and awaiting U.S. homologation, the GT2 is eligible for more than 20 global championships, including GT America. Maserati’s presence at the GT America is a statement of intent for a brand that wants to race again in America, with real competition.
GT America has helped revive sprint-format racing in the U.S. with exciting multi-class events under a bronze single-driver format. Each race weekend spans three days and features two 40-minute sprints on America’s most iconic tracks. It brings GT3, GT2, and GT4 type-approved machines back to close, high-intensity competition.
Over in the paddock, Maserati’s lineup drew plenty of attention. Alongside the GT2 sat the GT2 Stradale, a barely road-legal derivative that combines the race car’s DNA with the elegant lines of the MC20 supercar.
Next to it, the MCXtrema, limited to just 62 units. This track-only creation produces 730 horsepower from the same Nettuno V6, dressed in a two-tone matte blue and white “Corse” livery inspired by the legendary MC12. We recently got to savor the Nettuno V6 engine in our exclusive first drive of the MCpura Cielo in Italy.
Besides the static previews, there was plenty of action on track, making this an exciting event for Maserati owners and fans of the brand, hosting dedicated parade laps led by the 2026 GranTurismo Trofeo Coupe, while select guests were treated to MCXtrema Hot Laps on the oval. Maserati’s comeback in Indianapolis marks the Trident’s true return to American racing.
Images: Maserati
