FAA will shut the air corridor above Reagan National Airport for a three‑hour window on Aug. 23 so IndyCar’s Freedom 250 Grand Prix can race the National Mall.
Race Outline
The 1.7‑mile course features seven corners and will see drivers complete 147 laps around landmarks including the U.S. Capitol, National Archives, National Gallery of Art, and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.
Broadcasted by FOX, the event will kick off just after 1:00 pm Eastern Standard Time, fitting into Washington D.C.’s 250‑year celebration calendar.
Airspace Logistics
During the 10:15 am to 1:15 pm slot, all arrivals and departures to Reagan National Airport will be halted, mirroring past FAA closures for the Fourth of July UFC fight at the White House and a June 2025 military parade.
Supporting Card
Following the Grand Prix, the International Race of Champions will stage a support race featuring NASCAR legends Jeff Gordon, Kurt Busch, Bobby Labonte, Rusty Wallace, and Bill Elliott, alongside Indy 500 champions Helio Castroneves, Tony Kanaan, and Dario Franchitti.
Access and Promotion
General admission to the race is free, while a Champion’s Club area offers an exclusive weekend experience for up to $5,000. The event was added to the calendar after President Trump signed an executive order on Jan. 30, and it was promoted at the White House by Roger Penske, Alex Palou, David Malukas, and Felix Rosenqvist.
"