Freedom 250 Grand Prix Set to Make History in America’s Capital

Today, Monday, July 13, President Donald Trump and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy appeared at the preview of the “Freedom 250 Grand Prix,” an NTT INDYCAR SERIES race scheduled to take place from August 21–23 on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

The event will become the first motorsports race in Washington, D.C. history and is part of the celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States’ independence. This unprecedented race will showcase the nation’s rich motorsports heritage while honoring its core values.

“America’s birthday doesn’t end on July 4…,” Duffy said. Both the Secretary and the President expressed pride in the project and what it represents for American culture.

Freedom 250 Grand Prix

Organized by INDYCAR in collaboration with the White House, the “Freedom 250 Grand Prix” will combine high-speed racing with a celebration of American patriotism. President Donald Trump highlighted INDYCAR’s longstanding tradition, saying the race could set attendance records, and praised the series’ legacy, which includes the Indianapolis 500 and legendary drivers such as Mario Andretti, A.J. Foyt, Alex Palou, and Josef Newgarden.

INDYCAR owner Roger Penske thanked the President for his support and said the Freedom 250 will be a historic event celebrating American independence, innovation, and motorsports excellence. He also noted that much of the circuit will be accessible to spectators free of charge and that the event is expected to generate a significant economic impact for Washington, D.C.

Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy described the race as a reflection of America’s competitive spirit, while Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum said the event will showcase the nation’s capital and its iconic public spaces as part of a landmark national celebration.

The 1.7-mile, seven-turn street circuit has been designed with fan accessibility, spectacular viewing opportunities, and safety as top priorities. NTT INDYCAR SERIES cars will race down a 0.4-mile front straight along Pennsylvania Avenue, framed by the Washington Monument and the United States Capitol. The pit lane will be located adjacent to Pennsylvania Avenue between Turns 1 and 2. Drivers will also pass iconic landmarks including the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the National Gallery of Art, and the National Archives on what promises to be a challenging and scenic course.

The street circuit will be open to the public free of charge, offering fans views of many of the nation’s most recognizable monuments. As with every INDYCAR race, the event will be broadcast live on FOX Sports.