St. Petersburg Firestone Grand Prix 2026 Brings IndyCar Back to the Waterfront
A Downtown Tradition That Signals Racing Season
The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is officially set for Friday February 27th through Sunday March 1st 2026, continuing its role as the opening race of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season. Each year, this weekend marks the moment when downtown St. Pete shifts gears, welcoming teams, fans, and international attention to the city’s waterfront streets.
City approval for the 2026 race dates was finalized in 2025, locking in another year of racing at the heart of downtown and reinforcing the event’s long standing relationship with St. Petersburg.
How the Street Course Shapes the Weekend
Unlike traditional racetracks, the St. Pete Grand Prix unfolds across a temporary street circuit built along the downtown waterfront. The course winds past Albert Whitted Park, the Duke Energy Center for the Arts, and the Mahaffey Theater, placing the action steps away from parks, museums, and the bay.
For residents and visitors alike, the setup is part of the experience. Streets normally used for daily commutes become high speed straights and tight corners, offering a rare perspective on familiar parts of the city.
More Than One Race on the Schedule
Race week officially begins before cars hit the circuit. On Thursday February 26th, North Straub Park hosts Party in the Park, a free community event that welcomes fans ahead of the race weekend. That same evening, the annual 5K run gives participants the chance to take to the course on foot, offering a unique way to experience the track before race cars take over.
While IndyCar is the main attraction, the weekend includes a full lineup of support series. INDY NXT by Firestone, USF2000, and the Mazda MX 5 Cup all compete throughout the three day event, meaning track activity runs from morning to afternoon across multiple days. Even longtime attendees often note that there is rarely a quiet moment once engines are running.
Getting Downtown During Race Weekend
Transportation planning is an important part of attending the Grand Prix. The SunRunner bus rapid transit line is promoted as a convenient option for reaching downtown, helping reduce traffic and parking challenges. Ride options and group passes are typically available through PSTA, with details released closer to race weekend.
Drivers should expect road closures and detours throughout the downtown core during the event, particularly near the waterfront and race circuit perimeter.
Tickets and Viewing Options
Ticket options traditionally range from general admission to reserved grandstand seating, with pricing varying by day and location. Previous announcements list prices starting around the lower end for single day access, with higher priced options offering shaded seating and premium views. Tickets are sold through the official Grand Prix website and authorized outlets.
A Fixture on the St. Pete Calendar
Year after year, the Firestone Grand Prix remains one of downtown St. Petersburg’s most recognizable events. It draws racing fans from around the world while showcasing the city’s waterfront, skyline, and cultural landmarks on a global stage. Whether attending in person or watching from home, the 2026 race weekend once again places St. Pete at the center of the IndyCar season.
