WASHINGTON — This August, the roar of open-wheel racing is poised to echo through the nation’s capital in what could be one of the most unusual spectacles in IndyCar history. President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday authorizing the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C., an NTT IndyCar Series street race set for Aug. 21–23, 2026, as part of the America 250 celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.
The event — tentatively mapped around the National Mall and Pennsylvania Avenue — will be the first major motorsports race ever staged in Washington, highlighting the nation’s iconic monuments and skyline while cars potentially approach speeds near 200 mph.
Trump, flanked by IndyCar owner Roger Penske and local leaders, has championed the race as both a patriotic celebration and a unique addition to the 2026 sporting calendar. The executive order directs the Department of Transportation and the Department of the Interior to work with INDYCAR and Washington officials to finalize a street circuit course that showcases the city’s landmarks and ensures an exciting competition for drivers and fans alike.
Although details such as the exact layout and logistical plan are still being finalized, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix is expected to be free for much of the public to attend and will be broadcast live on FOX Sports as part of the expanded 2026 IndyCar schedule.
From the National Mall to the U.S. Capitol grounds, the streets of Washington could soon host more than just parades and protests — with high-octane racing adding to the nation’s 250th birthday festivities. Whether you call it patriotism on wheels or simply a wild idea come to life, this one promises to be memorable.
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