2026 Indy 500
May 24 All day
The Indianapolis 500, often called the “Indy 500,” is the world’s oldest currently operational automobile race and arguably the most famous event in motorsports. As part of the “Triple Crown” of racing, it sees 33 drivers compete over 200 laps at speeds exceeding 230 mph. The 2026 edition will mark the historic 110th Running of this legendary event.
đź“… When is the 2026 Indy 500?
- Date: Sunday, May 24, 2026 (Memorial Day Weekend).
- Green Flag: Traditionally at 12:45 PM ET.
- Gate Opening: Gates usually open at 6:00 AM ET for the sunrise tradition.
🏎️ Where is the 2026 Indy 500?
The race is held at the world’s highest-capacity sports venue:
- Venue: Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS)
- Location: Speedway, Indiana (an enclave city within Indianapolis)
- Capacity: 257,325 permanent seats (with total attendance often reaching 300,000+ including the infield).
About “The Brickyard”
The 2.5-mile rectangular oval is known as “The Brickyard” because it was once paved with 3.2 million bricks. Today, a 3-foot strip of original bricks remains at the start/finish line. Winners traditionally celebrate by kissing these bricks.
🎟️ How do I get tickets for the 2026 Indy 500?
Tickets for the Indy 500 are notoriously popular and often require early action.
- Renewals: Fans who attended the 2025 race have the first right to renew their seats.
- General Public Sale: Applications for remaining tickets usually open in the fall of 2025.
- Ticket Types:
- Reserved Grandstand: These are the primary seats. The “Paddock,” “A Stand,” and “B Stand” provide the best views of the pits and the finish line.
- Snake Pit: A separate ticket is required for this EDM concert held in the infield (Turn 3) during the race.
- General Admission: Grants access to the infield mounds. These do not provide a view of the track as clearly as grandstands but offer the quintessential “party” atmosphere.
- Official Site: Always purchase through IMS.com to avoid fraudulent secondary listings.
đźš— How to travel to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Traffic on race day is heavy; the population of Speedway effectively becomes the second-largest city in Indiana for a few hours.
- Park & Ride (Shuttle): The most recommended option. Shuttles run from Downtown Indianapolis and the Indianapolis International Airport directly to the track.
- Pedal and Park: Many fans bike to the track via the Monon and Cultural Trails, using the free, secure bicycle parking offered near the main gate.
- Driving/Parking: If you must drive, you should purchase a parking pass in advance. Many residents in the town of Speedway offer their lawns for parking (cash only, usually $20–$50).
- Air: Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is approximately 20 minutes from the track.
🏨 Where to stay for the 2026 Indy 500
- Downtown Indianapolis: 6 miles from the track. This is where the “500 Festival Parade” takes place on Saturday.
- Speedway/West Side: Closest to the track, but these hotels are often booked years in advance by teams and sponsors.
- Fishers/Carmel (North Side): Quieter suburban options with a 30-40 minute drive to the track on race day.
🥛 Unique Indy 500 Traditions
- The Milk: The winner drinks a bottle of cold milk (Whole, 2%, or Skim) in Victory Lane—a tradition started by Louis Meyer in 1933.
- Back Home Again in Indiana: The singing of this song just before the start is an emotional highlight.
- The Silver Trophy: The winner’s face is sculpted in sterling silver and added to the massive Borg-Warner Trophy, which stays at the IMS Museum.
đź”— Helpful Links for Planning Your 2026 Indy 500 Experience
- Official Indianapolis Motor Speedway Site
- IndyCar Series Official Website
- 500 Festival (Parade & Events)
- Visit Indy – Tourism Guide
Last Updated on December 31, 2025 by Sports Tourist