The Freedom 250 Grand Prix begins today in Washington, D.C., bringing high-speed, IndyCar racing to streets around the National Mall for the first time.
The two-day event opens at 8 a.m. ET on Saturday, with practice and qualifying sessions taking up most of the day.
The main event is set for Sunday, when 25 drivers will complete 147 laps of a 1.7-mile circuit that passes the Capitol, the Washington Monument and the National Gallery of Art — with a total race distance of roughly 250 miles. Drivers will reach speeds of up to 170 miles per hour.
President Donald Trump is expected to kick off Sunday’s race by waving a green flag. He will also take a ceremonial lap in the presidential limousine, known as “The Beast.”
Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has said local officials expect 140,000 visitors per day for the race festivities. Executives from major corporations are also expected to be there.
The race is part of this summer’s America 250 celebrations marking the country’s semiquincentennial, which have also included the Great American State Fair and the UFC cage match at the White House.
IN PHOTOS: Downtown DC is turned into a high-speed race track
Photos show organizers converting the streets of downtown Washington, D.C., into a high-speed race track ahead of this weekend’s events.
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Brendan Rascius22 August 2026 12:30
The 1.7-mile route will take drivers past the Capitol and Washington Monument
The route, a 1.7 mile loop, will take drivers past the Capitol, Washington Monument and National Archives, according to a map provided by the event’s organizers.
A total of 147 laps will be completed, making for a total distance of about 250 miles. Seven turns are included in the route.
Brendan Rascius22 August 2026 12:00
How much does the race cost?
The two-day event required D.C. streets to be converted into a temporary race circuit and carries a price tag of more than $35 million, according to CNN.
IndyCar paid the full cost, while Washington has drawn on a separate $90 million fund for security and emergency planning.
Brendan Rascius22 August 2026 11:30
America 250 Grand Prix kicks off today in Washington
The America 250 Grand Prix, a two-day high-speed IndyCar racing event, kicks off today in Washington, D.C.
Gates will open at 8 a.m. E.T. on Saturday, according to CNN. The day’s events will include practice races and qualifying rounds.
The main 147-lap race will take place tomorrow, and it is expected to be attended by President Trump.
Brendan Rascius22 August 2026 11:05
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