Salvador de Alba will join HMD Motorsports for the 2026 INDY NXT by Firestone season, team officials announced Jan. 15.

Mexican driver De Alba, 26, is entering his third year in the INDYCAR development series. He earned his first INDY NXT victory in 2025 at the Milwaukee Mile and followed with a runner-up finish at Nashville Superspeedway for Andretti Global. He finished fifth in the season standings.

“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,” de Alba said. “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.”

Building on success in Mexico and the United States, de Alba has developed a diverse and accomplished racing résumé. He earned two championships in the NASCAR Mexico Series and five titles in the SuperCopa Mexico Series GTM class. He has further honed his skills through two seasons in USF Pro 2000 and in INDY NXT.

“Salvador is an outstanding addition to our lineup and exactly what we were looking for heading into 2026,” HMD Motorsports 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.”

De Alba participated in a preseason test with HMD Motorsports in 2025 at Barber Motorsports Park. He will continue to take part in all official INDY NXT by Firestone tests as preparations begin for the 2026 season, which starts Sunday, March 1 on the streets of St. Petersburg, Florida.