The countdown is officially on for the 110th running of the Indianapolis 500, and the excitement at the Brickyard is reaching a fever pitch. As fans gear up for the traditional Memorial Day weekend spectacle, here is everything you need to know about "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing."

The action kicks off this weekend with qualifying runs that will set the 33-car field. Indy cars will hit the track for "Fast Friday" on May 15, followed by two days of high-speed qualifying sessions. The main event is scheduled for Sunday, May 24, at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana.

All eyes will be on four-time champion Hélio Castroneves, who is chasing history at age 51. The Brazilian legend, who celebrated his birthday on May 10, is aiming to become the first driver ever to win the Indy 500 five times. He already shares the all-time record of four wins with A.J. Foyt, Al Unser, and Rick Mears, having triumphed back-to-back in 2001 and 2002, again in 2009, and most recently in 2021.

The green flag will drop at 12:45 p.m. ET on May 24, with racing icon Roger Penske giving the traditional command to start engines at 12:38 p.m. FOX will begin its broadcast coverage at 10 a.m., ensuring fans don't miss a moment of the build-up or the race itself.

Adding to the pageantry, Jim Cornelison—known as the longtime anthem singer for the Chicago Blackhawks and Bears—will perform "Back Home Again in Indiana," the beloved pre-race tradition. Cornelison has carried the torch since 2017, following the legendary Jim Nabors, who sang the song for 36 years through 2014. Meanwhile, singer-songwriter Jordin Sparks will deliver the national anthem, marking her third consecutive appearance at the event.

Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer to open-wheel racing, the 2026 Indy 500 promises speed, drama, and a chance to witness history. Are you ready for race day?