IndyCar and the White House confirm a race in Washington DC in August

THEIndyCar announced this Friday a historic first: the series will organize the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, DC, from August 21 to 23, 2026. The race will take place on a circuit laid out around the National Mall, in the heart of the American capital, on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Celebrating our independence and honoring the legacy of American motorsport.

This summer, INDYCAR is coming to Washington, DC 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/w2s8bxkp90

- NTT INDYCAR SERIES (@IndyCar) January 30, 2026

An executive order signed by President Donald J. Trump entrusts the 250th Anniversary Celebration Task Force with the implementation of the route, in coordination with IndyCar, the Department of Transportation, the Department of the Interior, and the office of the mayor of Washington, DC.

« IndyCar racing is a source of pride and entertainment for our nation."C," President Trump said in the statement.This race, the first ever organized in our capital near the National Mall, will allow drivers to race around our national monuments to celebrate American independence. »

For Roger Penske, owner of the eponymous stable, this announcement is " an incredible distinction for our sport and promises a A memorable spectacle that will showcase the patriotism, innovation, and excellence that are the soul of American motorsports. ».

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser also welcomed the event: The race weekend will boost our local economy and show the world that Washington, DC is an ideal city to host major sporting events. »

The street circuit will be open to the public free of charge and will offer spectacular views of several iconic landmarks. Like all IndyCar races, the event will be broadcast live on Fox Sports. Details of the track layout and full schedule will be revealed in the coming weeks.

With this announcement, the 2026 IndyCar season calendar, which was already known, will finally consist of 18 races.

ALSO READ > An IndyCar race in Washington, D.C., Donald Trump's wish