IndyCar tests new street circuit for Freedom 250 Grand Prix

IndyCar drivers tested the bumps and turns of a new street circuit in Washington, D.C., on Saturday, August 22, 2026, as preparations concluded for the inaugural Freedom 250 Grand Prix, a race celebrating the nation's 250th birthday. The 1.7-mile, seven-turn temporary track, carved from streets around the National Mall, will host its first and possibly only NTT IndyCar Series race on Sunday, August 23.

Drivers navigated the course during practice and qualifying sessions, quickly learning that the straightforward layout presented a significant physical and mechanical challenge. The track features severe bumps, particularly on the Pennsylvania Avenue straightaway leading into Turn 2 and approaching Turn 6. Series points leader Alex Palou, who posted the fastest practice lap and later qualified on pole, described the circuit as "very bumpy" but ultimately "a blast." He identified Turns 2 and 5 as key passing opportunities due to the track's wider sections compared to other street courses.

Driver Pato O'Ward, who placed fifth in the second practice session, emphasized that the bumps caused his car to bottom out aggressively, forcing immediate setup adjustments. "That can be very...