Finding the right channel for the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing" used to be a guessing game between ABC and NBC for decades. Not anymore. If you’re hunting for what channel is the Indy 500 on for the 2026 season, the answer is straightforward but a big shift for long-time fans: FOX.
Every single lap of the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500 will air live on the main FOX broadcast network on Sunday, May 24, 2026.
This isn't just a one-off deal. Back in 2024, IndyCar signed a massive multi-year agreement that moved the entire series over to FOX Sports starting with the 2025 season. They even doubled down in 2025 when Fox Corporation actually bought a one-third stake in Penske Entertainment, the group that owns both the series and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway itself. Basically, FOX isn't just showing the race; they’re part-owners now. You’ve probably noticed the shift in energy—more promotion during NFL games and a much heavier push on social media.
The 2026 Race Day Schedule on FOX
Honestly, if you're a die-hard fan, you aren't just tuning in for the green flag. FOX is treating this like the Super Bowl of motorsports. They've scheduled a massive six-hour broadcast window starting at 10 a.m. ET.
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The pre-race pageantry is half the fun. You've got the "Back Home Again in Indiana" singing, the flyovers, and the excruciating tension of the driver introductions. The actual race usually sees the green flag drop around 12:45 p.m. ET, but you’ll want to be on the couch way before that.
- 10:00 a.m. ET: Pre-race coverage begins on FOX.
- 12:30 p.m. ET: Official race ceremonies.
- 12:45 p.m. ET: Green flag for the 110th Indy 500.
- Post-Race: Victory Lane celebration and the legendary milk-drinking ceremony.
Where to Stream the 2026 Indy 500
What if you don't have a dusty old antenna or a cable box? You aren't out of luck. Since the race is on the main FOX network, you've got plenty of digital options.
- The FOX Sports App: You can stream the race live here, but you’ll typically need to log in with "TV Provider" credentials. If you're at a friend's house and they have cable, use their login.
- Live TV Streaming Services: This is the easiest route for cord-cutters. Services like YouTube TV, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and DIRECTV STREAM all carry local FOX affiliates in almost every US market.
- Sling TV: You can get FOX on Sling, but only in certain markets and usually on the "Blue" package. Check your zip code before you commit.
One thing to keep in mind: Peacock is out. For years, fans got used to seeing everything on NBC’s streaming service. That era is over. You won’t find the Indy 500 on Peacock or Paramount+ in 2026. It is a FOX-exclusive world now.
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Practice and Qualifying: Don't Get Lost
The race itself is on the big FOX channel, but the "Month of May" involves weeks of practice and that heart-stopping four-lap qualifying run. FOX spreads this coverage across its cable siblings.
For the 2026 season, look for practice sessions and the "Fast 12" or "Last Chance" qualifying sessions on FS1 (Fox Sports 1) and FS2. Usually, the heavy lifting is on FS1. If you're a gearhead who wants to watch every practice lap, make sure your streaming package includes these two.
What About the Local Blackout?
This is the question that haunts every race fan in Central Indiana. For decades, the live broadcast was blacked out in Indianapolis to encourage ticket sales. It’s a controversial tradition.
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In recent years, the blackout has only been lifted if the race was a total sell-out. With FOX now being a part-owner of the track, there’s always a bit of corporate maneuvering behind the scenes, but generally, you should assume the local Indy blackout is in effect unless you hear otherwise a few days before the race. If you live in Speedway, Indiana, you’re either at the track or listening to the radio.
International Viewing Options
If you’re reading this from outside the United States, your "what channel" answer depends on where you’re standing.
- Canada: Typically airs on TSN or Sportsnet.
- UK and Ireland: Sky Sports F1 has been the home for IndyCar for a while.
- Australia: Look for it on Stan Sport or Foxtel/Kayo.
For most other regions, the IndyCar Live streaming service offers a direct subscription to watch sessions, though the race itself is often geo-blocked if a local broadcaster has the rights.
Why the Change to FOX Matters
It's sort of a big deal for the sport. When NBC had the rights, they did a great job with production, but they often moved smaller races to the USA Network or tucked them away on Peacock. FOX has promised to keep the majority of the season—and definitely the Indy 500—on "Big FOX."
The 2025 ratings were a massive jump for the series. People found the race more easily. In 2026, the lead-in is even better. FOX is using its FIFA World Cup 2026 coverage to cross-promote IndyCar, which means more eyes on drivers like Pato O'Ward, Josef Newgarden, and the seemingly unbeatable Alex Palou.
Actionable Next Steps for Race Day
- Check your local FOX affiliate: Use a tool like the TitanTV guide or just your TV’s built-in menu to ensure you actually get FOX.
- Download the INDYCAR App: It’s free and gives you live telemetry, timing, and most importantly, the driver radio scanners. Listening to a driver scream at their pit crew while doing 230 mph is the best way to experience the race.
- Test your streaming login: Don't wait until 12:44 p.m. to find out you forgot your password. Sign in to the FOX Sports app at least a day early.
- Set the DVR: Even if you’re watching live, set it to record. The Indy 500 frequently has "red flag" stoppages for crashes, and the race can run long. Add an extra hour to your recording timer just in case.