Oscar Mayer Wienermobiles Set to Race Again at Indy 500

The second annual Wienie 500 race will take place on Carb Day ahead of the big race.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 11:39am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

For the second year in a row, Oscar Mayer's fleet of Wienermobiles will head to Indianapolis to compete in the Wienie 500 race during Indy 500 race week. The 2025 champion Slaw Dog will look to defend its title against other regional hot dog styles, and fans will get to vote for the final racer to join the competition.

Why it matters

The Wienie 500 has become a fun and quirky tradition during Indy 500 race week, bringing more attention and excitement to the biggest race in motorsports. It also highlights the regional diversity of hot dog styles across the country.

The details

In 2025, six different Wienermobiles representing regional hot dog styles competed in the inaugural Wienie 500, with the Slaw Dog (Southeast) taking the championship. This year, the same six Wienermobiles will return to race, and fans will get to vote for the final competitor to join the field, with options including the Puka dog (Hawaii), Denver dog (Colorado), Plain dog (National), Idaho dog (Idaho), Veggie dog (National), Ripper dog (Jersey), Corn dog (National), and a second chance for the Sonoran dog (Southwest).

  • The 2nd annual Wienie 500 will take place on May 22, 2026, during Carburation or "Carb" Day, when the Indy 500 racers hold their final practice session.
  • Voting is now open for the "Pick Your Dog" bracket via the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile's Instagram (@wienermobile) to determine the final racer to join the competition.

The players

Oscar Mayer

An American meat company that is known for its hot dogs and the iconic Wienermobile vehicles.

Slaw Dog

The 2025 champion of the Wienie 500 race, representing the Southeast region's style of hot dog.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“another chance to relish the spotlight of racing's biggest weekend”

— Oscar Mayer representatives (Associated Press)

What’s next

Fans can vote for the final racer to join the Wienie 500 competition via the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile's Instagram (@wienermobile). The 2nd annual Wienie 500 race will take place on May 22, 2026 during Carb Day ahead of the Indy 500.

The takeaway

The Wienie 500 has become a beloved and quirky tradition during Indy 500 race week, showcasing the regional diversity of hot dog styles across the country and bringing more attention and excitement to the biggest race in motorsports.