Trump Announces IndyCar Race in Washington D.C. for America's 250th Birthday

The Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C. will be the first motor race ever held in the nation's capital.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 1:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

President Donald Trump signed an executive order that will bring an IndyCar race to Washington, D.C. to celebrate America's 250th birthday. The Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C. will run August 21-23 and be the first motor race ever held in the nation's capital near the National Mall.

Why it matters

This event is seen as a way to celebrate American patriotism, innovation, and excellence through the popular motorsport of IndyCar racing. It will also provide a new entertainment option for residents and visitors to the nation's capital during the 250th anniversary of the country's founding.

The details

The race will be administered by IndyCar with federal agencies and D.C.'s mayor's office. The street circuit will be free to the public and include views of national monuments. The event will be televised live on FOX Sports, and more details about the course will be announced in the coming weeks.

  • The Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C. will run August 21-23, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who signed the executive order to bring the IndyCar race to Washington, D.C.

Roger Penske

The owner of the IndyCar series who praised President Trump for the "incredible distinction" of hosting the race in the nation's capital.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“INDYCAR racing is a source of pride and entertainment for our Nation, which is why I am pleased to announce the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C.”

— Donald Trump (The White House)

“This event will celebrate patriotism, innovation, and excellence.”

— Roger Penske, IndyCar Series Owner (wrtv.com)

What’s next

More details about the course layout and event schedule for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C. will be announced in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The first-ever IndyCar race in the nation's capital will provide a unique opportunity for Americans to celebrate their country's 250th birthday through the excitement of motorsports and the iconic backdrop of Washington, D.C.