2026 Indianapolis 500 viewership averages 6.635 million viewers
Motorsport.com • 1 min read • Latest: May 28, 2026, 4:15 PM
Last updated May 28, 2026
The 2026 Indianapolis 500 attracted an average of 6.635 million viewers, a decrease from last year's 7.050 million. Factors contributing to the decline included a less dramatic pre-race buildup and the absence of NASCAR driver Kyle Larson attempting the 'Double' this year. Recent headlines were also dominated by a scandal involving Penske. As the race unfolds, teams and drivers are gearing up for future events while analyzing viewer engagement.
- •Average viewership dropped from 7.050 million in 2025.
- •Absence of Kyle Larson affected pre-race excitement.
- •Penske scandal diverted attention leading to lower viewership.
- •Future races will be analyzed for viewer engagement trends.
- 4:15 PMMotorsport.com — 2026 Indy 500 viewership numbers released
"The 2026 edition of the Indianapolis 500 averaged 6.635 million viewers, down from the 7.050 million that watched one year ago. The pre-race buildup this year wasn't as dramatic as the year prior, with no bumping and the fact that the Penske scandal dominated headlines. This is also the first time since 2023 that NASCAR star Kyle Larson wasn't attempting the Indy-Charlotte 'Double.' Katherine ...Keep reading
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