International Race of Champions cars will take to a 1.7‑mile street circuit in Washington D.C. this Saturday, merging IndyCar racing with one of the nation’s most iconic venues.
Freedom 250 Grand Prix Weekend Features IROC
The Ray Evernham‑led series has announced an exhibition that will bring classic IROC machines into the heart of the capital. The event runs under the Freedom 250 Grand Prix banner, launching Saturday, August 22, on a course that circles the National Mall and cuts through a 0.4‑mile strip of Pennsylvania Avenue.
A statement from co‑principal Ray Evernham underscored the event’s significance: “To see IndyCar and IROC race on such hallowed ground, against the backdrop of some of our nation’s most iconic landmarks, will be something truly special for competitors and fans alike. We are honored to have IROC included in the festivities and we look forward to putting on a great show for the fans.”
Legendary Drivers on the Track
The exhibition will feature former NASCAR Cup champions Jeff Gordon, Kurt Busch, Bobby Labonte, Rusty Wallace, and Bill Elliott, alongside Indy 500 victors Helio Castroneves, Tony Kanaan, and Dario Franchitti. These drivers will compete in IROC spec cars that were first raced in 1974 and ran annually until 2006.
Historic Circuit and Landmarks
Teams will drive past the Washington Monument, the U.S. Capitol, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the National Gallery of Art, and the National Archives, offering fans a front‑row seat to both speed and history.
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