IndyCar Adds Boston Race for 2016

IndyCar has announced that it will race in the South Boston waterfront on Labor Day weekend during the 2016 Verizon IndyCar Series season. The Grand Prix of Boston will feature an 11-turn, 2.25-mile temporary street course that will surround the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. The event marks the first time IndyCar has raced in the Boston area, a key northeast market for the Verizon IndyCar Series.

“The level of enthusiasm we have received from the Boston community has been phenomenal and we look forward to showcasing the Verizon IndyCar Series on Labor Day weekend in 2016,” said Mark Miles, CEO of Hulman & Company, the parent of IndyCar and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. “There has been a tremendous amount of work from community leaders and Grand Prix of Boston officials and those efforts led to this key addition to our 2016 calendar. We’re thankful to Boston Mayor Martin Walsh, Grand Prix of Boston CEO Mark Perrone and many other supporters who were instrumental in making today’s announcement possible. Establishing IndyCar racing in the Northeast is an integral part of our strategy for growing our national fan base.”

The 2015 season features 16 events, a mix of street races, ovals and road courses largely in the Midwest and western United States. Race officials have been seeking an East Coast event near the end of the season since 2013, when the Grand Prix of Baltimore was last staged.

“This is an exciting time in Boston and as we explore new ways to grow and attract visitors here, we’re engaging in strong dialogue with organizations like the Grand Prix of Boston,” said Walsh. “This event has great potential to bring an influx of tourism and support our local businesses during what is traditionally a challenging holiday weekend for hospitality. I’m excited to begin this process and hear from our residents and business owners as we move forward.”