How to watch the Indy 500 for free

It’s been a long time since the Indy 500 has sold out, but this year’s running of the greatest spectacle in racing isn’t expected to have an empty seat. That’s because fans haven’t had a chance to witness the race for years, as the pandemic has caused an array of issues.

In 2020, the race didn’t take place until late August, the first time it wasn’t held around the Memorial Day holiday—and no spectators were allowed. Last year, attendance was capped at 40%, roughly 135,000 fans. This weekend, though, the grandstands will be full.

Can’t make the journey to Indiana for the race? We’ve got all the details you need here.

When does the Indy 500 start?

The green flag will drop on the 2022 Indy 500 at 12:45 p.m. ET on Sunday, May 29. But there are plenty of other events that are nearly as exciting for fans.

9:00 a.m. ET – Cars pushed to pit lane

11:47 a.m. ET – Driver introductions

12:38 p.m. ET – Drivers start their engines

What network is airing the 2022 Indy 500?

NBC will begin pre-race coverage at 11 a.m., and the broadcast will run through 4 p.m. It will be aired simultaneously on Universo and the Peacock streaming service (which will also host a post-race show for premium subscribers).

Can I watch the 2022 Indy 500 for free?

That depends, somewhat, on where you live. After two years without blackouts, the race will not be available to people in the Indianapolis area again starting this year. Everyone else, though, can watch for free with a good HD antenna.

The Indy 500 will be broadcast by NBC—meaning you’ve got a good chance of capturing the game over the air, which costs nothing beyond the equipment prices. Be sure to test the antenna in multiple locations in your home to find the most reliable signal.

Can I watch the 2022 Indy 500 online?

Absolutely! Here are a few options:

Peacock

NBC’s streaming service will have the most comprehensive coverage. You can get a seven-day free trial, followed by a $5 or $10 monthly charge. (The free version of Peacock does not include live sports.)

Fubo TV

This sports-focused cord-cutting service carries NBC in most markets. There’s a seven-day free trial, followed by monthly charges of $65–$80, depending on the channels you choose.

Hulu with Live TV

You can try the service free for a week. Once that’s up, you’ll pay $65 per month.

YouTubeTV

After a two-week trial, you can expect monthly charges of $65.

Sling TV

Dish Network’s Sling has a lower-tiered Orange plan that will run you $35 per month. Adding the more comprehensive Blue plan bumps the cost to $50 per month. You’ll have a seven-day free trial first—and right now, the cord-cutting service is dropping the first month’s bill to $10.