Indy 500 To Become Largest Spectator Event Since COVID

The Indianapolis 500 is set to be the largest sporting event hosted with fans since the start of the pandemic, with 135,000 spectators permitted to attend the 105th installment of the event.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway announced Wednesday it worked with the local health department to determine that 40% of venue capacity can attend the May 30 race on Memorial Day weekend.

“It is high time for fans to return to the greatest motor speedway in the world with this safety plan in place," Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb said. "We’re going to have a great Month of May, so let’s go racing.”

In addition to limited attendance, other health and safety measures will be taken, like temperature checks and required face coverings.

The speedway is the largest sporting facility in the world, with more than 250,000 grandstand seats and the ability to host close to 400,000 on race day throughout the entire property, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway's website states.

The speedway is currently used as a COVID vaccination site and will host additional vaccination dates to "encourage Race Day attendees – and all Hoosiers – to get vaccinated immediately," the news release reads.

“The number-one thing fans can do to ensure a great Race Day is get vaccinated as quickly as possible,” Penske Entertainment President & CEO Mark Miles said. “We continue to offer vaccinations at IMS and will be extending our mass vaccination clinic throughout the Month of May. This is all part of the effort to continue getting Indiana back on track.”

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said the announcement demonstrates a continued commitment to hosting major events safely and showcases the strong collaboration between the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and public health partners.

"We’re excited to have Race Day back in May, welcoming fans as we continue to promote vaccination for residents and visitors alike," he said.

Indy 500 will take place on May 30.