Alex Palou begins Indy 500 title defence as 2026 practice gets underway
Defending champion Alex Palou leads a 33-car field into the 110th running of the Indianapolis 500, with practice sessions beginning this week ahead of the historic race on Sunday, 24 May.
The prestigious 2.5-mile oval event stands as one of the ultimate tests in global motorsport.
Drivers will reach breathtaking speeds exceeding 200mph during the gruelling 500-mile contest.
The current IndyCar championship leader secured a dominant victory last year and remains the formidable favourite to repeat his triumph.
Unique qualifying format explained
Grid positions are determined through a high-stakes, multi-day elimination process starting on Saturday, 16 May.
Every competitor is guaranteed a four-lap qualifying attempt following a random draw to establish the initial running order.
Drivers can risk wiping their established times by entering the priority lane for a second attempt to climb the timing sheets.
The fastest 12 racers will then advance to a thrilling pole-position shootout on Sunday evening.
Weather forecasts and track conditions
Early practice sessions in Indiana are expected to remain dry, offering teams vital uninterrupted track time.
However, unpredictable conditions could disrupt the marathon six-hour Saturday qualifying session.
Meteorologists currently predict clear skies for both the Sunday shootout and the main race day on 24 May.
UK broadcast details and schedule
UK viewers can follow the entirety of the action live across the Sky Sports network.
The spectacular showdown perfectly precedes Formula 1’s Canadian Grand Prix taking place later that same evening.
Key milestones for the 2026 event are scheduled as follows:
- Saturday, 16 May: Initial six-hour qualifying phase
- Sunday, 17 May: Fast 12 pole-position shootout
- Sunday, 24 May: 110th Indianapolis 500 race (17:30 BST start)