IndyCar is set to host a groundbreaking event, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, on a street circuit in Washington, D.C. The race, designed to celebrate America's 250th birthday, will feature drivers navigating past iconic national landmarks.
Two-time Indianapolis 500 winner and two-time series champion Josef Newgarden, along with Andretti Global's Kyle Kirkwood, discussed the significance of the event on Fox News Channel's "Fox & Friends." They described the opportunity to race in the nation's capital as a "once-in-a-lifetime" experience.
"It's going to be absolutely incredible — a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see IndyCars racing around the nation's capital," said commentator Will Buxton. "We're here to celebrate America's 250th birthday with a once-in-a-lifetime race around Washington, DC."
Newgarden, driver of the No. 2 Chevrolet for Team Penske, emphasized the rarity of such an event. "I don't know when we're going to have an opportunity to race in our nation's capital again with an IndyCar," he stated. "So, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Want to go out there and win with our team — with Team Penske — and obviously represent the country."
Kirkwood, driver of Andretti Global's No. 27 Honda and currently second in the championship standings, highlighted the intricate street circuit. "This has been going on for many, many months, setting up the track, which is on down Pennsylvania (Avenue), around the museums, and then (goes) right by the Capitol. It's going to be a beautiful backdrop," Kirkwood said. He added that an estimated 100,000 people are expected to attend over both days of the event.
Practice sessions are scheduled to begin Saturday morning, with qualifying to follow later that evening. The Grand Prix itself is set to start at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, with pre-race coverage beginning at 11:30 a.m. on FOX. The track layout features a start-finish line with the U.S. Capitol Building visible in the background.