'Freedom 250 Grand Prix' to Mark 250th Anniversary of Independence to Be Held August 22–23
A 1.66-Mile Circuit Connecting the U.S. Capitol and National Archives… Top Speeds of 185 mph
280,000 Free Tickets Sell Out Early, Only $5,000 VIP Seats Remain… Public Transportation Urged
In celebration of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, downtown Washington, D.C., will transform into a massive racing circuit this summer. The Washington Washington, D.C. city government and IndyCar organizer Penske Corp. announced that they will host the 'Freedom 250 Grand Prix' for the first time in history on August 22 and 23 around the National Mall.
This event was planned in accordance with an executive order issued by President Donald Trump in January to promote domestic tourism and celebrate the 250th anniversary of independence. It has drawn nationwide attention early on as a downtown race held around key landmarks of the U.S. capital.
The circuit where the race will take place is a total of 1.66 miles (approximately 2.67 km) starting at 3rd Street SW near the Capitol Reflecting Pool, passing through Pennsylvania Avenue, the National Archives, 9th and 7th Streets, and connecting to Independence Avenue. Composed of 7 curved corners, race cars on this circuit will sprint at top speeds of up to 185 mph (approximately 298 km/h) on downtown streets normally restricted to 25 mph.
Organizers estimated an average of 140,000 spectators per day during the event period, with 70,000 in the venue area alone. All 288,000 free general admission tickets were completely sold out just 9 days after ticketing began. Currently, the only available tickets are the VIP 'Champions Club' passes worth $5,000, which include food and beverages. For citizens unable to attend in person, large screens will be installed within the controlled area between 3rd and 12th Streets, and the race will be broadcast nationwide via the FOX channel.
In line with a major sports event, road maintenance and security work have also begun in earnest. To prevent accidents where manhole covers pop up due to strong vehicle downforce, organizer Penske Corp. is conducting overnight work to weld 220 manholes along the course and repair road surfaces at 49 points with silicone.
The Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department, the Secret Service, and the U.S. Park Police have entered emergency duty status, implementing flight controls near the airport and placing a total ban on drone flights. Airport-level security screening will be applied upon entering the venue area.
Mayor Muriel Bowser stated, "This Grand Prix is an opportunity to showcase the charm of the nation's capital, D.C., to the world and inject great vitality into the slow summer local economy." As downtown congestion is expected starting August 14 when road controls begin, Washington Metro (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority) is actively encouraging the use of public transportation by increasing train services and issuing limited-edition SmarTrip transit cards commemorating the event.