2026 Indy 500: Schedule, favorites, and where to watch the big race in Indianapolis
Alex Palou will aim to defend his title at the 500 Miles this Sunday in one of the most important races in global motorsports
The countdown to the 2026 Indianapolis 500 has already begun. Also known as the Indy 500, the race is one of the biggest spectacles in motorsports and an annual Memorial Day tradition in the United States; it will celebrate its 110th edition this Sunday, May 24, at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
More than 350,000 fans are expected over the weekend at the legendary Indiana circuit, where drivers will complete 200 laps to cover the traditional 500 miles.
What time is the Indy 500, and where can I watch it?
The race will officially start at 12:45 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, May 24. Pre-race coverage will begin at 10:00 a.m. on FOX.
The Indy 500 will also be available via streaming on the FOX Sports App, FOX One, FuboTV, YouTube TV, and other compatible platforms. Additionally, FOX Deportes will offer a Spanish-language broadcast.
Friday will feature the traditional Carb Day, the final major practice session before the race, while Saturday will host Legends Day, a day of interaction between drivers and fans, during which historic figures in motorsports are also honored.
Favorites
The main name to watch this weekend will be Spain’s Alex Palou. The Chip Ganassi Racing driver arrives as the defending champion, the INDYCAR championship leader, and the pole-sitter. Palou will aim to become the first driver to win back-to-back Indy 500s, a feat that would further cement his legacy in the series.
The front row will consist of Palou, Alexander Rossi, and David Malukas. Behind them are drivers considered contenders for the win, such as Pato O’Ward, Josef Newgarden, Scott Dixon, and Helio Castroneves.
According to the odds, Palou tops the list of favorites, followed by Malukas, O’Ward, and Newgarden.
Accidents and drama before the race
The week leading up to the race was not without incident. During practice, Rossi suffered a serious crash after losing control of his car. O’Ward was also involved as he tried to avoid the collision.
Both drivers will have to race in backup cars. Rossi even required minor medical treatment for injuries to a finger and his ankle, though his team confirmed he will be available to race on Sunday.
In addition, drivers Caio Collet and Jack Harvey were penalized following technical irregularities detected after qualifying and will start from the back of the grid.
Potential historic achievements
One of the main focal points will be Castroneves. The 51-year-old Brazilian will attempt to become the first driver in Indy 500 history to win five times.
Meanwhile, Britain’s Katherine Legge will attempt to complete “The Double” by competing in both the Indy 500 and the NASCAR Coca-Cola 600 on the same day. She would be the first woman to achieve this feat.
There will also be anticipation surrounding the debut of Mick Schumacher, son of seven-time Formula 1 champion Michael Schumacher.
Who will be attending the race?
The 2026 edition will feature several special guests. WNBA star Caitlin Clark will give the traditional command, “Drivers, to your cars.”
Actor Brendan Fraser will wave the green flag, while Jordin Sparks will perform the national anthem before the race begins.
Weather forecast
The weather remains one of the biggest topics of the weekend. After several days of rain in Indiana, the forecast calls for thunderstorms and rain on Friday during Carb Day.
However, conditions are expected to improve by Sunday. Currently, temperatures are expected to be around 80.6° Fahrenheit (27°C), with humid conditions and only isolated chances of rain in the afternoon. If the forecast holds, the race could take place without significant delays.
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