Indianapolis Motor Speedway postponed the start of the Indianapolis 500 and pre-race traditions Sunday just before noon due to a strong storm moving into the area.
More than 125,000 fans who had already arrived at the speedway were asked to evacuate the grandstands and Snake Pit area.
In a social media post, track personnel announced, “Given the approaching lightning towards the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the decision has been made to halt the pre-race ceremonies and evacuate fans from the grandstands and Snake Pit. Spectators are advised to follow the instructions of IMS team members, exit the grandstands in an orderly manner, and implement their personal safety plans. The start of the 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500 will also be delayed. Further updates on timing will be provided.”
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Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles stated they would continue to monitor the conditions, and it was uncertain how long the delay would endure.
The storm’s peak was expected around 12:45 p.m. ET, coinciding with the scheduled race start time, as reported by The Associated Press.
Given the approaching lightning towards the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the decision has been made to halt the pre-race ceremonies and evacuate fans from the grandstands and Snake Pit.
Spectators are advised to follow the instructions of IMS team members. They should… pic.twitter.com/Yk9W2AVOpr
— Indianapolis Motor Speedway (@IMS) May 26, 2024
