IndyCar drivers are set to race through the streets of Washington, D.C., in the historic Freedom 250 Grand Prix, an event designed to celebrate the nation's 250th birthday. The 1.7-mile temporary street circuit will wind past iconic landmarks, including the U.S. Capitol and the National Mall.
Approximately two dozen drivers will compete in the 147-lap race, which is scheduled to take place on Sunday, August 23, 2026. The event marks a unique opportunity for the sport to race through the nation's capital, coinciding with a significant anniversary for the United States.
Sting Ray Robb, driver of the No. 77 Juncos Hollinger Racing Chevrolet, described the event as a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" and more than just a typical IndyCar race. "This is more than just an IndyCar event. This is a celebration of our country, the freedoms we’ve been given, the opportunity that we’ve been given," Robb stated on Fox News Channel’s "The Ingraham Angle." As one of eight American drivers in the series, Robb expressed his hope to represent the country well.
The race weekend's activities begin on Saturday morning with the first practice session at 9 a.m. ET, followed by a second session at 1 p.m. ET. Qualifying is scheduled for 5 p.m. ET. The initial practice session will be broadcast live on FS1, with the later sessions available on FS2.
On Sunday, drivers will participate in a warm-up session at 9 a.m. ET. The main event, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, is set to begin with the green flag dropping at 1 p.m. ET. The warm-up will be broadcast on FS1, and the race will be aired on FOX.