The NTT IndyCar Series' Freedom 250 Grand Prix held on the streets of Washington, D.C., achieved a significant viewership milestone, attracting 3.282 million viewers. This figure makes it the most-watched event for the series outside of the Indianapolis 500 since the Champ Car and Indy Racing League merger in 2008. The race, which celebrated the 250th anniversary of the United States, was broadcast on FOX Sports.
Spectators watch an NTT IndyCar practice run during the Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington, D.C., on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026. The event is expected to draw 140,000 people per day and generate more than $200 million for the city.
The viewership number represents a 279% increase over the average viewership for non-Indy 500 Sunday races. This surge has also boosted the season's average viewership to 1.875 million, a 32% rise from the previous season and a 70% increase compared to 2024, when races were aired on NBC and Peacock.
Kyle Kirkwood, driving the No. 27 Andretti Global Honda, secured the victory in the Freedom 250. Despite a challenging qualifying lap, Kirkwood demonstrated strong pace throughout the weekend, taking the lead from Alex Palou on the first lap and fending off challenges from Scott McLaughlin and Christian Lundgaard on late restarts.
Kyle Kirkwood, driver of the #27 Sam's Club Honda celebrates with his crew after winning the NTT INDYCAR Series Freedom 250 on Aug. 23, 2026 in Washington, DC.
The race's outcome has tightened the championship battle, with Kirkwood's win and a difficult race for championship leader Alex Palou setting the stage for the final three races of the season. The series will continue with a doubleheader weekend at the Milwaukee Mile, followed by a road course race at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. All remaining races will be broadcast on FOX.