Once again, Indianapolis Motor Speedway will host one of the biggest races of the year. The high octane hot dog race will return as part of the Indianapolis 500 festivities.
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According to a press release, the Wienie 500 is back for its second attempt. This event will pit six, identical Oscar Mayer Wienermobiles against each other at The Brickyard. The winning driver team will receive the Borg-Wiener trophy and the mustard spray in victory lane. They will then have the opportunity to kiss the iconic bricks that span the frontstretch.
This event debuted last season and sparked seemingly universal praise. 85,000 fans attended the race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway while eight million more watched via livestream as the Slaw Dog pulled off a slingshot move to score the win.
This year, the event will have a bigger platform. It will air on big Fox on Friday, May 22. Potentially more fans will be able to tune in for all of the festivities, which include the "Wiener Song" anthem, countless hot dog puns, and a blistering race at 60 mph.
5.22.26. The Wienie 500 returns.
Tune in MDW to see who will take top dog, live on @FoxSports. pic.twitter.com/rtIAiIfmIF
— Oscar Mayer (@oscarmayer) January 25, 2026
"The response to the first Wienie 500 was overwhelming, and we heard the fans loud and clear that they were hungry for more," said Kelsey Rice, brand communications director at Oscar Mayer.
"This year, we're supercharging the experience, delivering an even bigger, bolder and more unforgettable event that puts the fans at the forefront. With amplified engagement, intensified rivalries and more surprises in store, we're giving the people what they want - an unparalleled live experience that will leave them craving more."
This year's version of the hot dog race will feature a big change. Sonoran Dog, one of the six regional representatives, will not return after mechanical issues. Instead, fans will have the ability to vote for their new favorite competitor.
The winner of the fan vote will join defending champion Slaw Dog (Southeast), Chi Dog (Midwest), New York Dog (East), Chili Dog (South), and Seattle Dog (Northwest).
