Freedom 250 race distance extended

The August 22-23 Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington D.C. will feature a race distance that matches its title, as the inaugural event will feature 147 laps of racing that measure out to 250 miles of competition.

Its original lap count of 125 would have produced 212.5 miles of racing around the 1.7-mile temporary street course.

"With America celebrating 250 years of freedom and innovation in 2026, it is only fitting that the Freedom 250 Grand Prix will be a true 250-mile race," said Penske race chairman Bud Denker.

"The additional laps will create even more opportunities for strategy, on-track action and late-race drama while giving our fans extra value and even more opportunities to enjoy this historic event."

The special race, which navigates the nation’s capital and includes Pennsylvania Avenue, will feature just seven turns, and was added as a special 18th race on IndyCar’s calendar as part of President Donald J. Trump’s sweeping Freedom 250 initiative to celebrate the country’s 250th birthday.