Open-wheel racing cars are roaring through the streets of the U.S. capital today for the inaugural Freedom 250 Grand Prix, marking the first time automobile racing has been held along the National Mall in modern history.

The 147-lap event forms part of the national celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary. Drivers are navigating a temporary 1.7-mile, seven-turn street circuit that winds past iconic landmarks including the Washington Monument, Pennsylvania Avenue, the National Gallery of Art, and the Smithsonian Institution.

The race was officially added to the 2026 IndyCar Series calendar earlier this year following an executive order signed by President Donald Trump authorizing the event. President Trump is expected to attend the historic event in person, with pre-race festivities including a ceremonial lap on the circuit in the presidential limousine.

More than 100,000 spectators have gathered along the street course to watch the 25-car grid compete in Round 15 of the championship season. Points leader Álex Palou, who secured pole position during Saturday’s qualifying, leads the field into the landmark race.