in effect
This is a presidential executive order signed January 30, 2026, directing federal agencies to plan and hold an INDYCAR street race in Washington, D.C. called the “Freedom 250 Grand Prix.” It is framed as a celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence and positions the race as a showcase of the nation’s capital.
The Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Transportation have 14 days from January 30, 2026, to designate a race route through Washington, D.C. near the National Mall and national monuments. Both secretaries are directed to issue all necessary permits and approvals “as expeditiously as possible,” bypassing the normal timeline for such authorizations. The Secretary of the Interior may classify the event as a “special event” under existing federal park regulations to streamline approvals. The Secretary of Transportation is authorized to use available funds to help stage the race and must work with the FAA to allow permitted drones and aerial cameras at the event. Both secretaries must also coordinate with the D.C. Mayor to ensure roads, bridges, and trails used for the course are properly maintained.
Federal agencies — primarily the Department of the Interior and Department of Transportation — are given new directed responsibilities and deadlines. Washington, D.C. residents and commuters will be affected by road closures and infrastructure changes required to build and run a street racing circuit near the National Mall. INDYCAR racing organizers, race promoters, broadcasters, and vendors stand to gain a new sanctioned event, while nearby government facilities are specifically noted as a concern for airspace management.