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yesterday

IndyCar Extends Washington Freedom 250 to Full 250 Miles

Aligned with the U.S. semiquincentennial, the longer distance forces teams to change pit and tire plans while lengthening national TV coverage.

Virtual preview shows IndyCar’s Freedom 250 Grand Prix racing past DC landmarks
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 09: (L-R) Monica Crowley, White House Chief of protocol, Mayor Muriel Bowser, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy unveil the new Indycar at the press conference for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington DC on the National Mall on March 09, 2026 in Washington, DC. The Freedom 250 Grand Prix street circuit will feature a 1.7 mile course with seven turns on the National Mall, later this summer. (Photo by Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)
(Photo: Chris Owens/Penske Entertainment)

Overview

  • Race officials announced the change on Monday, increasing the inaugural Freedom 250 Grand Prix from 125 laps to 147 laps so the event covers 250 miles on Aug. 23.
  • The 1.7-mile, seven-turn street circuit will send cars down Pennsylvania, Constitution and Independence avenues near the National Mall and U.S. Capitol.
  • IndyCar and organizers say the extra 22 laps will likely require an additional pit stop, altering fuel strategy and Firestone tire management for teams and drivers.
  • FOX has expanded the broadcast window with an extended pre-race show beginning at 11:30 a.m. ET and the green flag planned shortly after 1:00 p.m. ET.
  • Organizers stress the race ties to national semiquincentennial celebrations and free public access, but final permitting, security plans, road closures and funding details remain outstanding and continue to be resolved.