Formula Indy: Major Changes on TV Schedule for 2025 Season
The Formula Indy is set to undergo significant changes for the 2025 television season, providing fans with an exciting new viewing experience. One of the most noteworthy updates is the schedule alteration for the Bommarito Automotive Group 500, a staple event held at the World Wide Technology Raceway in St. Louis. For the first time in the history of the series, this race will be broadcast during prime time on a Sunday night on American television (FOX) at 9 PM Brasília time. This decision, announced by INDYCAR and FOX Sports, transforms the St. Louis race into a captivating nighttime spectacle, reminiscent of the iconic races that lit up the track until 2019.
Expanded Broadcast Schedule
In addition to the historic prime-time slot for the Bommarito 500, four other races have also had their start times adjusted to draw in a larger audience. These races include Road America, Mid-Ohio, Iowa, and Toronto, with Toronto’s start time moved up to noon. The official table detailing these changes is available below. According to INDYCAR, this strategic approach is already paying off; the average viewership for races in 2025 has increased by 15% compared to the previous year, an impressive figure that would make any professional sports league envious.
Why This Matters
Open Television and Exclusivity: Formula Indy stands out as the sole open-wheel racing series in North America that offers all its races live on free-to-air television (FOX). The collaboration with FOX Sports for 2025 even includes INDY NXT, the feeder series, which will feature 13 out of 14 races on FS1, drastically enhancing visibility for these up-and-coming drivers.
WWT Raceway Under the Lights: The 1.25-mile oval has already built a reputation for thrilling overtakes (with record-breaking performances noted in 2024!) and will now add an extra layer of drama with the nighttime race. Fans can anticipate epic battles reminiscent of past showdowns, such as the famous clashes between Newgarden and Pagenaud.
Brazilian Fans: For those in Brazil, watching the season will be easier than ever, with dedicated coverage available on TV Cultura, ESPN4, and Disney+.
Schedule Changes (Brasília Time)
| Date | Circuit | TV | Old Time | New Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06/15 (Sun) | WWT Raceway (Bommarito) | FOX | 16:00 | 21:00 |
| 06/22 (Sun) | Road America | FOX | 16:30 | 14:30 |
| 07/06 (Sun) | Mid-Ohio | FOX | 15:00 | 14:00 |
| 07/13 (Sun) | Iowa (Race 2) | FOX | 15:00 | 14:00 |
| 07/20 (Sun) | Toronto | FOX | 15:00 | 13:00 |
INDY NXT Also Gains Visibility
The feeder series, INDY NXT, is not being left out of the excitement. The races at WWT Raceway, Road America, and Mid-Ohio have also been repositioned on FS1 to ensure they do not conflict with the Formula Indy broadcasts, allowing fans to enjoy both series without missing out.
Next Big Event: The Indianapolis 500
As the Bommarito 500 prepares for its nighttime debut, fans are eagerly looking forward to the next major event on the calendar—the Indianapolis 500. Scheduled for May 25, this iconic race will be broadcast on TV Cultura, ESPN4, and Disney+ starting at 1 PM Brasília time.
Conclusion
The 2025 season is poised to redefine how fans engage with the Formula Indy series, with a fresh approach to race scheduling and broadcast partnerships. This strategy not only promises to enhance the viewing experience but also aims to elevate the profile of open-wheel racing across North America. As the excitement builds, fans are encouraged to tune in and participate in what promises to be a thrilling season filled with high-speed action and unforgettable moments.
