St. Petersburg recognized native Nikita Johnson, 18, for making history as the youngest champion in the Indy NXT series. The celebration took place Monday in City Council chambers, where the mayor, council members and local students gathered to applaud his achievements.
Historic racing milestone
Johnson clinched the 2026 Indy NXT championship by Firestone, the developmental ladder for INDYCAR, and was simultaneously named the 2026 Dallara Rookie of the Year. The title marks a first for both Johnson and his team, Cape Motorsports, which has never before captured an Indy NXT championship.
From karting to national spotlight
Johnson’s racing career began in karting, progressing through the British GB3 series where he became the youngest winner in 2024, and the USF Pro 2000 championship, where he finished second that same year. At age 15, he recorded the youngest USF Pro 2000 race win at the Circuit of the Americas in 2023. This March, he won the season‑opening Indy NXT race at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, a fitting victory for the Gulfport resident.
Community support and future goals
During the ceremony, Johnson highlighted the importance of community backing, noting that his hometown provides a place to relax between races. He enjoys golfing and fishing and looks forward to returning home after each competition. Johnson expressed his ambition to race in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES next season and secure a multi‑year contract, with a long‑term dream of challenging champion Alex Palou’s recent winning streak.
“Nobody has done it yet, so it would be cool to break his streak,” Johnson said, acknowledging the challenge ahead.
Mayor and council praise
Mayor Ken Welch praised Johnson’s dedication, recalling their first meeting in 2018 when Johnson was still karting. Welch said, “Nikita’s story is an excellent example of what can happen when opportunity is pursued with talent, hard work, discipline and courage.” Council member Copley Gerdes added, “St. Petersburg has a racing tradition, and you’re carrying that torch.”
Inspiring the next generation
Students from Thurgood Marshall Fundamental Middle School and Pinellas Technical College attended the event. Johnson urged them to follow their dreams and excel in school, emphasizing the role model responsibility he feels toward young fans.
“I’m hoping the kids will follow their dreams and do well in school,” he said. “It’s just cool to have the support of all the little fans.”
Looking ahead
Johnson’s calm, collected approach to racing—favoring clear decision‑making over emotion—has earned him respect on the track. He remains focused on continual improvement, viewing each race as an opportunity to grow.
As St. Petersburg celebrates this hometown hero, the city looks forward to future victories that showcase the talent nurtured within the community.
Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.
