Washington, D.C., is preparing for a unique spectacle as officials move forward with plans for a high-speed auto race weaving through some of the nation’s most recognizable landmarks.
Organizers on Monday unveiled the official route for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, a 1.66-mile street circuit that will wind around the National Mall during a two-day event scheduled for Aug. 22–23. The race is being organized as part of broader celebrations leading up to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.
The seven-turn course will take drivers past some of the most iconic sites in the United States. According to IndyCar officials, the track will feature sweeping views of the Washington Monument, the U.S. Capitol, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, and sections of Pennsylvania Avenue. Cars will also speed past the National Archives, the National Gallery of Art, and the Hirshhorn Museum, with the pit lane set up along Pennsylvania Avenue.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy described the project as a collaborative effort involving federal agencies, local government, and private partners.
“This was a team effort,” Duffy said while unveiling the layout. “It’s Penske, it’s FOX, it’s the mayor, it’s Interior, it’s everybody else joining together not to make a profit, not to get your name out there but to say, let’s celebrate America. Let’s celebrate America’s birthday.”
The race will mark the first time a professional street circuit will run through the National Mall area, transforming normally quiet historic avenues into a high-speed motorsports course. Construction of the temporary circuit is expected to begin during the summer ahead of the event.
To mark the historic milestone, organizers also revealed a red, white, and blue “Freedom 250 Grand Prix IndyCar” design tied to the broader America250 celebrations.
Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser said the event is expected to draw visitors from across the country and around the world.
“We want people to plan their trips to D.C. now,” Bowser said. “Come for the Freedom 250, and then stay to enjoy our monuments and museums, our beautiful parks, world-class restaurants and hotels, and all the culture and entertainment that make us the best city in the world.”
The idea gained momentum earlier this year when President Donald Trump issued an executive action directing federal officials to coordinate with city leaders on events commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. Those efforts are being led in part by Monica Crowley, who serves as the administration’s representative for the America250 initiative.
“The story of America is one of vision, courage, perseverance — and speed,” Crowley said in a statement. “Presidents Washington and Jefferson marked notable celebrations with spirited horse races; the Freedom 250 race will bring that historic tradition into the 21st century and renew a tremendous sense of patriotic pride.”
The IndyCar race is just one of several major sporting events being considered as part of the national anniversary celebration. The administration has also floated the idea of hosting a UFC event at the White House, while the United States will simultaneously be preparing to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
