Kirkwood gives the Freedom 250 an American winner on the streets of downtown Washington08/24/2026WASHINGTON (AP) — Kyle Kirkwood gave the Freedom 250 an American winner, racing to his second victory of the IndyCar season on the streets of downtown Washington in a dominant performance. In a race set up as part of the country’s 250th birthday celebration, President Donald Trump gave drivers the green flag at the start and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser served as grand marshal. Kirkwood crossed the finish line in front of the U.S. Capitol 3.09 seconds ahead of Christian Lundgaard. Kirkwood led for 128 of a possible 147 laps. Pole winner Alex Palou, who had a chance to clinch the series title, finished 20th.