The excitement is building as the NTT INDYCAR SERIES gears up for the 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge, set to take place at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS). This year marks a remarkable occasion as reserved seating for Race Day is fully sold out for the first time since the landmark 100th edition in 2016.
Currently, a handful of tickets remain in the IMS grandstands, and with the high demand, it’s anticipated that a complete sellout will be achieved by the preliminaries of the practice sessions on May 25 or even earlier during the PPG Presents Armed Forces Qualifying Weekend. Fans looking to secure a reserved seat for the event are urged to act quickly by visiting IMS.com.
In a related development, event organizers have lifted the local broadcast delay of the race. The expanded coverage of the inaugural Indy 500 on FOX is set to commence on Sunday, May 25, at 10 a.m. ET, with the race itself kicking off around 12:45 p.m. ET.
Penske Entertainment President and CEO Mark Miles commented on the significance of this year’s race, stating, “This year, the greatest race on Earth will host one of its biggest and most memorable crowds in many decades. This is a terrific showcase for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and a great milestone to supercharge our relationship with FOX Sports.”
The anticipated crowd at IMS, which is the largest spectator sporting facility in the world, is expected to exceed 350,000 fans, making it an immense event on a global scale. INDYCAR and IMS President J. Douglas Boles shared his enthusiasm, highlighting the tremendous support from fans and the sheer scale of the gathering, which promises to create an unforgettable atmosphere for the inaugural FOX broadcast.
Further enhancing the event’s allure, the Hulman Terrace Club is sold out, and all hospitality suites are filled. General admission wristbands for the Coors Light Snake Pit, a sought-after experience pairing with general tickets, are still available.
The excitement for the race has also permeated the Indianapolis community, with local initiatives embracing the Indy 500 spirit. From racing-themed porch parties to community artwork celebrating the race, the enthusiasm is palpable across Central Indiana.
Adding to the star-studded appeal of the event, legendary quarterback Tom Brady, alongside racing icon Jimmie Johnson, will be present, while other sports greats like Michael Strahan and Rob Gronkowski are set to participate, bringing additional prestige to the occasion.
As the day approaches, fans are encouraged to arrive early on Race Day to fully embrace the festivities, which include new experiences being offered by FOX Sports. The pre-race ceremonies promise to be electrifying, filled with emotional moments and noteworthy appearances.
For ticket information and to stay updated on the event, fans should check IMS.com and follow their social media channels. With inventory selling rapidly, those interested are advised to secure their spots as soon as possible.
The 109th Running of the Indy 500 is not just a race; it is a celebration of community, sportsmanship, and the passion of racing fans worldwide.