Ed Carpenter Gives Update on Alexander Rossi Ahead of Indy 500 Carb Day

Today, Alexander Rossi is still walking around in a boot as he signs autographs and greets fans at Indianapolis. The Indy 500 Carb Day is on Friday, and many fans are wondering if they will see Rossi suit up.

Bob Pockrass of Fox Sports spoke with team owner and driver Ed Carpenter. Rossi is driving the No. 20 Ed Carpenter Racing Chevy. The team also fields the No. 21 of Christian Rasmussen and the No. 33 for Ed Carpenter himself.

"Ed Carpenter said they should find out soon if Alexander Rossi is available for Carb Day," Pockrass reported on social media. "He said Rossi has been clearing all the hurdles. He said they do have some contingency plans if Rossi can't go."

Alexander Rossi suffered a hard crash in Practice 7 on Monday, the day after qualifying on the front row for the Indy 500. He had outpatient surgery on a finger on his left hand and his right ankle.

The plan from the start, or at least after Rossi got out of surgery, was to return for the Indianapolis 500. Participating in Carb Day would be a major positive step towards being ready to race.

So, Ed Carpenter Racing isn't saying he is or isn't going to participate, yet. An update should be provided ahead of Friday's session on the track. Athlon Sports will provide an update on his status when one comes from ECR.

Good news for Alexander Rossi fans, it sounds like he's on the right path. He is recovering, in good spirits, and has been participating in the autograph signings and other obligations. Rossi is a tough driver and is determined to participate in the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday. Hopefully, he can make laps on Carb Day and fans get to see this warrior of a driver on the track.

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This story was originally published May 21, 2026 at 2:37 PM.