1981 IndyCar season

The 1981 IndyCar season, the third in the CART era of U.S. open-wheel racing, consisted of 11 races, beginning in Avondale, Arizona  on March 22 and concluding at the same location on October 31. The PPG Indy Car World Series Drivers' Champion was Rick Mears. Rookie of the Year was Bob Lazier. After the disagreement with the USAC during the previous season, the 65th Indianapolis 500 was not part of the Series, however no competing race was scheduled and most CART teams and drivers did take part.

Drivers and constructors
The following teams and drivers competed for the 1981 CART World Series.

Grands Prix
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