A Historic Turnout: Indy 500 Sells Out Grandstands for the First Time Since 2016
The energy at this year’s Indy 500 was electric, and for good reason. All 257,000 permanent seats were sold by the Friday leading up to race weekend, while another estimated 100,000 fans packed into the infield, transforming the 253-acre IMS into a buzzing sea of racing enthusiasts. The last time the grandstands saw a sell-out of this scale was during the 100th running of the race in 2016—a testament to the enduring appeal and growing momentum of the event.
IMS Senior Director of Marketing, Michael Kaltenmark, attributed the record-breaking attendance to consistent promotional efforts and the event’s unique status as a bucket-list experience. He credited the drivers, devoted teams, and a game-changing broadcast partnership with FOX Sports for helping the race reach new heights in visibility and fan engagement.
“We’ve focused on retaining the new fans we attracted in 2016 and building on that by about 10 percent each year,” said Kaltenmark. “The Indy 500 is not just epic in action—it’s a cultural event steeped in history.”
Thrills, Traditions, and a Rookie on Pole
Among this year’s highlights was a rookie driver securing pole position—an occurrence not seen since 1996. In addition to the main event, fans were treated to the inaugural Weenie 500, a whimsical race between six Oscar Mayer Wienermobiles, adding a touch of humor and charm to the high-octane weekend.
The ultimate victory, however, belonged to Álex Palou, a three-time IndyCar champion, who celebrated his win with the time-honored tradition of sipping ice-cold milk—a ritual that dates back to 1936 when Louis Meyer requested buttermilk after his second win.
This moment, like many others at the Indy 500, reinforces the race’s rich history and distinctive customs, setting it apart from any other motorsport event in the world.
The Largest Sports Venue in the World Delivers Big
For those unfamiliar with the scale of the IMS, it is worth noting that the venue is not only the oldest continuously operating racetrack in the U.S. but also the largest sports venue globally in terms of capacity. The stadium can host more people than the entire population of Iceland—a mind-boggling fact that underscores the race’s grandeur.
And in 2025, that space was used to its fullest, with fans from 35 countries and countless states flocking to Indiana to be part of the magic.
A Race Powered by Generational Passion
While international attendance is notable, the Indy 500 remains a deeply local tradition. According to Kaltenmark, a majority of ticket buyers come from Indiana and neighboring states. This local love is so strong that, since 1951, the race has been blacked out on local TV, encouraging fans to experience it in person. The blackout was lifted this year only because of the overwhelming ticket sales, allowing locals a rare chance to watch from home—though many preferred the live action.
For fans like Edward Davis, the race is a family legacy. Attending since 1974 after his mother won tickets in a grocery store raffle, Edward has renewed his seats every year since. “As long as I’m able, I’ll be back,” he said, a sentiment echoed by thousands of lifelong fans.
Music, Memories, and Meaningful Moments
One of the most cherished moments before the race is the performance of “Back Home Again in Indiana”, a tradition dating back to 1946. It’s a moment that stirs deep emotion among Indiana natives and sets the stage for the adrenaline-fueled spectacle that follows.
Other fans, like Craig Price, have stories that connect generations. From his father listening to shortwave broadcasts after World War II to his daughter holding tickets today, the Indy 500 has become a cherished family ritual.
Similarly, Larrian Gillespie, who first brought her daughter in 2021, described the event as a “perfect bonding experience.” This year, she brought a friend fulfilling a lifelong dream to attend the race in person. “It’s not just about racing—it’s about the people, the atmosphere, and the energy,” she said.
A Timeless Spectacle Worth the Hype
As engines roared and the crowd cheered, the 109th Indy 500 wasn’t just another race—it was a celebration of history, passion, and community. From rookies on pole to veterans in the stands, and from tradition-steeped ceremonies to quirky events like the Weenie 500, every moment added to the rich tapestry of the event.
Whether you’re a lifelong racegoer or a newcomer checking off a bucket-list item, the Indy 500 remains an iconic American event that continues to evolve while preserving its soul. With a sold-out crowd and unforgettable stories, 2025’s race proved once again why it’s called the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing.”
