The IndyCar Series is a professional open-wheel racing series in North America that features rapidly-paced races on diverse and challenging street courses.
Courtesy of Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg
By Max Steele
The Firestone Grand Prix returns to the streets of downtown St. Petersburg from Feb. 25 to 27 and will serve as the first race in the 2022 NTT IndyCar Series season for the first time since the start of the pandemic.
The IndyCar Series is a professional open-wheel racing series in North America that features rapidly paced races on diverse and challenging street courses.
Colton Herta, a 21-year-old who resides in Belleair, Florida, won the Grand Prix’s 100-lap main event last year on April 25, 2021. Josef Newgarden placed second and Scott McLaughlin placed third.
After being canceled in 2020 and rescheduled in 2021, the three-day event will host a variety of IndyCar races, driver autograph sessions, interactive games, food and drinks, live entertainment and merchandise stores.
The Grand Prix will also introduce its newest fan experience, “Party in the Park.” Hosted from 4 to 6 p.m. on Feb. 26 at North Straub Park, Party in the Park is a free event that will feature special guests, including IndyCar Series reigning champion Alex Palou, plus, prizes and fireworks, according to a Grand Prix news release.
The Grand Prix’s location in downtown St. Petersburg makes it a favorite among racers, owners and fans. IndyCar Racing CEO Mark Miles told WTSP what a privilege it is to be able to race in this city.
“We love starting our year here,” Miles said. “It’s almost been traumatic not to begin the championships for the last two years here.”
The Grand Prix generates nearly $40 million in revenue for the local economy and brings “international exposure” to the city, according to WTSP.
Race organizers say the event will feature a full capacity crowd but still encourages COVID-19 protocols, such as face masks, social distancing and sanitization.
Gate hours:
- Feb. 25 (Friday) 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Feb. 26 (Saturday) 7:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- Feb. 27 (Sunday) 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
General admission (adult):
- $60 weekend pass
- $25 Friday pass
- $40 Saturday pass
- $55 Sunday pass
For more information, including individual race times, premium seating prices and a festival map, visit the Grand Prix’s website.
