IndyCar Holds One-Time Freedom 250 Grand Prix on Washington’s National Mall
The inaugural IndyCar Freedom 250 Grand Prix will run on the National Mall this weekend, with Penske covering most costs and the event broadcast live on Fox.
Washington, D.C. – A two-day IndyCar street race, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, is set to take place on the National Mall this weekend, marking the series' first event in the nation’s capital. The 147-lap, 1.7-mile circuit will wind past landmarks such as the Capitol, the Washington Monument and several Smithsonian museums, with the main race scheduled for Sunday at 1 p.m. Eastern time and televised on Fox.
Event chair Bud Denker, president of Penske Corporation, said the race is a "one-time only" celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary. He estimated that about 140,000 spectators will attend each day after a lottery for free general-admission tickets attracted roughly 288,000 applicants. Premium viewing areas, including a $5,000 per-person Champion’s Club package, are also available.
The race was approved through an executive order signed by President Trump that expedited permits and approvals for the temporary street circuit. Penske Entertainment is financing the majority of the $20-plus-million cost, while the District of Columbia will cover security expenses through its Emergency Planning and Security Fund, which received $90 million from Congress.
Mayor Muriel Bowser highlighted the expected economic boost for local hotels and restaurants, and officials hope the event will draw visitors during the congressional recess. The race concludes the 2024 IndyCar championship’s 15th of 18 scheduled events, featuring drivers such as series champion Alex Palou and Indy 500 winner Felix Rosenqvist.
After the race, road closures and parking restrictions may remain in place through mid-September while temporary structures are dismantled.