DRR Makes Triumphant Full-Time Return to Realize Founder’s Dream

Dreyer & Reinbold Racing will return to full-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES competition in 2027 after acquiring a charter from Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, pending INDYCAR approval.

The move realizes the late Dennis Reinbold’s long-held plan. Discussions with RLL began shortly before his death in June 2024, adding poignancy to the timing.

CEO Derek Reinbold leads the program alongside president and chief commercial officer Brett DeBord and team principal and chief operations officer Chase Selman.

The charter guarantees a full-season entry from the 2027 opener. DRR will also maintain multiple Indianapolis 500 efforts alongside the year-long program.

Engine choice remains open between Chevrolet and Honda engines. The full-time driver lineup is yet to be determined.

The step up resets DRR’s footprint beyond Indianapolis for the first time since 2013. It demands renewed resources for ovals, street tracks, and road courses.

Founded in 1999, DRR’s sole series win came in 2000 when Robbie Buhl won at Walt Disney World Speedway. Family motorsport roots trace back to Floyd “Pop” Dreyer.

At Indianapolis, DRR has become a reliable independent force. Its best finish is fourth, achieved by Oriol Servia in 2012, with frequent frontrunning stints since.

In 2025, Ryan Hunter-Reay nearly contended late before fuel strategy unraveled. DRR drivers have led the 500 four times in the last six years.

Brett DeBord called the announcement a full-circle moment for a program shaped by Dennis Reinbold, Robbie Buhl, and Eric DeBord.

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Derek Reinbold underscores continuity and ambition: “I know my dad would be proud.” The priority now is translating Indy competitiveness to a complete calendar.

Operationally, the manufacturer decision will shape support, drivability, and development cadence. Recruiting and infrastructure must match the series’ travel and testing demands.

For broader context on rebuilds and re-entries, see this former F1 team comeback and how strategic patience accelerates returns.

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James William

James William covers the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, from the Rolex 24 at Daytona to sprint-race formats. His reports include prototype performance reviews, GT class battles, and pit-stop strategy insights for endurance-racing fans.