Story perspectives

Iowa Speedway Loses IndyCar Race Amid Attendance Struggles

9/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

Iowa Speedway will not host an IndyCar race in 2026, the first absence since 2009, due to attendance issues, with fewer than 6,000 tickets sold for recent events.
The loss of Hy-Vee as title sponsor and the lack of concerts reduced the event's appeal.
IndyCar added races at Phoenix Raceway and Milwaukee Mile for 2026, with the Detroit Grand Prix scheduled for May 31 after a successful 2025 event attracting 156,000 fans.
The 2026 season will include 17 races, starting March 1 in St. Petersburg, Florida, and ending September 6 at Laguna Seca.

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Story summary

Iowa Speedway will not host an IndyCar race in 2026, the first absence since 2009, due to attendance issues, with fewer than 6,000 tickets sold for recent events.
The loss of Hy-Vee as title sponsor and the lack of concerts reduced the event's appeal.
IndyCar added races at Phoenix Raceway and Milwaukee Mile for 2026, with the Detroit Grand Prix scheduled for May 31 after a successful 2025 event attracting 156,000 fans.
The 2026 season will include 17 races, starting March 1 in St. Petersburg, Florida, and ending September 6 at Laguna Seca.