Washington D.C. to host Freedom 250 IndyCar Grand Prix in August, announced by President Trump

President Donald J. Trump and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced at the White House that the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, the first IndyCar race in Washington D.C., will take place on August 22‑23, 2026. The two‑day event will run on a temporary 1.66‑mile street circuit winding around the National Mall and Pennsylvania Avenue, with cars expected to reach speeds above 190 mph. It coincides with the United States’ 250th‑anniversary celebrations.

The showcase highlighted participating drivers David Malukas, series champion Alex Palou and Indy 500 winner Felix Rosenqvist, as well as racing mogul Roger Penske and his Team Penske. Organizers reported more than 250,000 registration requests for the free event, with a planned capacity of 100,000 spectators each day. Penske noted the extensive coordination effort, saying the team held over 80 meetings in 90 days to secure the race amid what he described as partisan obstacles. The race is presented as a showcase of technology, speed and American patriotism.