While most of the attention this past weekend was focused on the annual Formula One United States Grand Prix in Austin, something just as significant was happening to the north at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Maserati returned to the Brickyard, marking the U.S. debut of the Maserati GT2, a machine that brings the Trident’s centuries-old racing legacy full circle.
Fresh from its championship season in the Fanatec GT2 European Series, the GT2 wore a special tribute livery reminiscent of the 1939 Maserati 8CTF. Driven by Wilbur Shaw, this car conquered the Indianapolis 500 in 1939 and 1940.
The new GT2 pays homage to this heritage and connection to the track, while combining modern, lightweight carbon fiber construction, advanced aerodynamics and distinctive Maserati design. The GT2 is now type certified and awaiting US homologation. It is eligible for more than 20 global championships, including GT America. Maserati’s presence at GT America is a statement of intent from a brand that wants to race in America again, with real competition.
GT America has helped revitalize sprint racing in the United States with exciting multi-class events in a single-driver Bronze format. Each race weekend spans three days and includes two 40-minute sprints on America’s most famous tracks. It brings GT3, GT2 and GT4 type-approved machines back into close, high-intensity competition.
Over in the paddock, Maserati’s lineup attracted a lot of attention. In addition to the GT2, there was the GT2 Stradale, a barely road-legal derivative that combined the racing car’s DNA with the elegant lines of the MC20 supercar.
Next to it is the MCXtrema, limited to just 62 copies. This track-only creation produces 730 horsepower from the same Nettuno V6 and is dressed in a two-tone matte blue and white “Corse” livery inspired by the legendary MC12. Recently we were able to enjoy the Nettuno V6 engine on our exclusive first drive with the MCpura Cielo in Italy.
In addition to the static previews, there was plenty of on-track action, making this an exciting event for Maserati owners and fans of the brand, with special parade laps led by the 2026 GranTurismo Trofeo Coupé, 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
