Crystal and Capitol: The bespoke hardware for INDYCAR’s Washington D.C. milestone

The NTT IndyCar Series is set to stage the Freedom 250 in Washington, D.C., a 250-mile street race organised to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States. The event, scheduled for this weekend, utilises a 1.7-mile circuit that traverses landmark locations within the nation’s capital. To commemorate the occasion, the series has introduced a bespoke trophy for the podium finishers, designed to reflect the unique geography of the race venue.

Designed by Michael Montri, the trophy integrates two prominent symbols of Washington, D.C.: the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol dome. Montri described the design as a representation of the perspective from behind the Washington Monument, looking toward the Capitol Building across the National Mall. The upper section of the trophy features a solid clear crystal pyramid modelled on the profile of the Washington Monument.

The design specifications are precise, with the crystal pyramid featuring a 72.6-degree face angle and a 1,600 height-to-base ratio to match the proportions of the physical monument. A hollow shaft continues down from the crystal at the same angle to the plinth. Crowning the structure is a detailed model of the U.S. Capitol dome, with components scaled down across the three podium positions.

The base of the trophy is constructed from a black hollow material, assembled using 45-degree miter joints to hide bond line seams and create a monolithic appearance. An optical detail is incorporated into the design, where a mirror-finish polish on the underside of the plinth directs light upward. This reflective surface is intended to illuminate the crystal pyramid and Capitol dome from within during victory lane celebrations.

The trophy will be produced in three scaled sizes for the podium finishers. While the hardware is a focal point of the event’s branding, the race itself presents significant logistical challenges. Bob Pockrass of Fox Sports noted that racing through the streets of the capital is a rare historic occasion that will test both drivers and pit crews.

Pockrass highlighted that the conditions will test the drivers’ strength and ability to manage heat, while the pit crews are expected to handle at least four stops. The event serves as a centrepiece for the United States’ bicentennial celebrations, blending motorsport with national heritage through both its course layout and its commemorative hardware.