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Here are 5 drivers to keep an eye on as IndyCar hits the streets of Washington for Freedom 250 Grand Prix

The NTT IndyCar Series is set to hit the streets of Washington, D.C. for a unique racing event to commemorate the United States' 250th anniversary. This...

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Here are 5 drivers to keep an eye on as IndyCar hits the streets of Washington for Freedom 250 Grand Prix
As he so often is, Alex Palou will be one of the drivers to beat in Washington, DC as he closes in on his fifth career championship. (Photo by Yuan Tian/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

The NTT IndyCar Series is set to hit the streets of Washington, D.C. for a unique racing event to commemorate the United States' 250th anniversary. This weekend's Freedom 250 Grand Prix is expected to draw significant attention, with several drivers vying for the top spot.

Leading the championship standings is Alex Palou, who drives the No. 10 Honda for Chip Ganassi Racing. Palou is a four-time series champion and has already secured the Indy 500 title for 2025. He enters the weekend with a substantial 133-point lead over his nearest competitor. Despite a disappointing qualifying performance last weekend, Palou managed to finish fourth in the race.

Kyle Kirkwood, driving the No. 27 Honda for Andretti Global, is currently second in the championship standings. Kirkwood has excelled on street circuits, with five of his six IndyCar wins coming on such tracks. He will be looking to apply his skills to the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, where he has a strong chance of success.

Other drivers to watch include David Malukas, who has been impressive in his first season with Team Penske despite still seeking his first IndyCar win. Malukas has been a consistent performer and is third in the championship standings. Pato O'Ward, a fan favorite and one of the series' most talented drivers, will also be competing, although he trails teammate Christian Lundgaard in the standings and in race wins.

The Freedom 250 Grand Prix is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, with pre-race coverage starting at 11:30 a.m. ET on FOX.

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NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.

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