Indianapolis 500 – 2025: Schedule, Tickets, Lineup & Race Day Experience at IMS
The Indianapolis 500, popularly known as the Indy 500, returns for its historic 109th running on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS). As one of the most iconic races in global motorsport, the Indy 500 blends speed, tradition, and innovation—this year more than ever with the debut of hybrid powertrains and new broadcasting partners.
With a star-studded driver lineup, electric pre-race atmosphere, and one of the largest single-day sporting crowds on Earth, the 2025 edition is set to be legendary.
Indianapolis 500 2025 – Full Event Schedule
Here’s a detailed look at the race day schedule for Sunday, May 25, 2025:
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 6:00 AM | Gates Open |
| 9:00 AM – 9:20 AM | Cars to Pit Lane |
| 10:30 AM | Cars to Grid (Frontstretch) |
| 11:47 AM | Driver Introductions |
| 12:20 PM | National Anthem |
| 12:38 PM | Command to Start Engines |
| 12:45 PM | Green Flag – Race Begins |
Note: Activities are subject to change depending on weather and race day operations.
🎟️ Indianapolis 500 2025 Tickets – How to Book
Ticket options for the 2025 Indy 500 cater to all types of fans, from first-timers to seasoned racegoers. Tickets are now available at IndianapolisMotorSpeedway.com.
✅ Ticket Categories:
- General Admission (GA): Affordable option for those who want flexibility to explore IMS grounds.
- Reserved Grandstand Seats: Best for optimal views along key turns and straightaways.
- VIP Packages & Hospitality: Includes exclusive lounge access, food & beverage, pit passes, and premium parking.
- Snake Pit Tickets (21+ only): Access to the Coors Light Snake Pit concert and party zone inside Turn 3.
💲 Sample Pricing (Subject to Change):
| Category | Starting Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| General Admission | $50 |
| Grandstand Seats | $90 – $150+ |
| VIP Suites | $500+ |
| Snake Pit Add-on | $75 (with GA) |
🛑 Pro Tips:
- Book early to avoid sellouts.
- Snake Pit access requires separate admission (Must be 21+).
- Children 15 and under are free with a paid adult GA ticket.
Hybrid Powertrains Debut in 2025 Indy 500
A major milestone for the sport, hybrid engine technology makes its Indianapolis 500 debut in 2025. These powertrains combine internal combustion engines with an energy recovery system (ERS) for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency.
Benefits of Hybrid Integration:
- Faster acceleration
- Reduced fuel dependency
- Improved sustainability and performance metrics
- Strategic deployment via driver-activated push-to-pass-like systems
All teams will be running this new hybrid setup, which has been tested in select races since mid-2024.
Drivers to Watch – 2025 Indy 500
This year’s lineup is among the most competitive in decades. Here’s a look at some of the standout names:
- Hélio Castroneves: Making his 25th Indy 500 start, the Brazilian legend aims to become the first-ever five-time winner.
- Josef Newgarden: The reigning champion, Newgarden is eyeing a third straight victory, which would make him the first to achieve such a feat.
- Kyle Larson: NASCAR sensation making another bid to complete the famed “Double Duty” (racing both the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 on the same day).
- Álex Palou: The 2025 IndyCar Series leader, coming off an explosive start to the season with four wins in the first five races.
- Scott Dixon, Pato O’Ward, and Colton Herta: All poised for breakthrough wins and strong showings.
Coors Light Snake Pit 2025 – EDM at 230 MPH
A fan-favorite party zone within the speedway, the Coors Light Snake Pit transforms Turn 3 into a high-energy music festival on race day.
🎶 Snake Pit 2025 Lineup Includes:
- DJ Snake
- Steve Aoki
- Dom Dolla
- Timmy Trumpet
- Deorro
Expect a fusion of fast cars and pounding beats as thousands of partygoers kick off summer at IMS.
Reminder: You must have a Race Day ticket + Snake Pit wristband to enter. Entry is restricted to those 21 and older.
Where to Watch – Broadcasting Details
🆕 2025 Broadcast Partner: FOX
For the first time in history, the Indianapolis 500 will be broadcast live on FOX, after the network secured exclusive rights for the 2025 IndyCar season.
📡 Viewing Options:
- TV: FOX Network (check local listings)
- Online: FOX Sports website or FOX Sports app
- Streaming: Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, FuboTV
🛑 Local Blackout:
If you live near Indianapolis, the race may be blacked out locally unless the event is sold out. Replays are usually available later in the evening.
Venue Details – Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS)
- Location: 4790 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222
- Seating Capacity: Over 250,000 (plus 100,000+ infield)
- Track Length: 2.5 miles (4.02 km)
- Number of Laps: 200
- Total Race Distance: 500 miles (805 km)
IMS is the world’s largest sports venue in terms of seating capacity.
Historical Significance & Legacy
First held in 1911, the Indianapolis 500 is the crown jewel of American motorsports. Known as “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” it holds immense cultural and sporting significance worldwide.
Fun Traditions:
- “Back Home Again in Indiana”: Sung before the race.
- Milk in Victory Lane: The winner traditionally drinks milk after the race.
- Three-Wide Start: Unique starting formation with 11 rows of 3 cars.
Read This: Top Festivals in May 2025 in the USA
🔚 Final Thoughts
The Indy 500 2025 isn’t just a race—it’s an experience that transcends motorsports. Whether you’re watching from the grandstands, streaming live from home, or partying in the Snake Pit, the 109th running promises adrenaline, drama, and unforgettable moments.
Secure your tickets early, mark your calendar for May 25, 2025, and get ready to witness racing history unfold at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
