The 2025 NTT IndyCar Series is revving up to deliver heart-pounding action, with high-speed oval showdowns, intricate road course battles, and the iconic Indianapolis 500 stealing the spotlight. For fans eager to stream IndyCar races, the shift to FOX Sports as the exclusive U.S. broadcast partner brings new opportunities and challenges. Whether you’re a cord-cutter, a die-hard fan seeking practice and qualifying sessions, or an international viewer, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best ways to watch every moment of the 2025 IndyCar season live and on-demand.
The 2025 IndyCar Season: What’s New?
The 2025 IndyCar Series marks its 114th season of open-wheel racing in North America, featuring 17 thrilling races from March to August. Highlights include the season opener at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, the prestigious 109th Indianapolis 500 (won by Alex Palou in 2025), and the season finale at Nashville Superspeedway. With a new media rights deal, every race now airs live on the FOX broadcast network, a historic move ensuring wider accessibility on network television. Practice and qualifying sessions, along with Indy NXT events, are broadcast on FS1 and FS2, while streaming options cater to fans without traditional cable subscriptions.
This guide dives into streaming platforms, free viewing options, VPN solutions, international access, and tips for enhancing your IndyCar viewing experience, ensuring you don’t miss a single lap of the action.
Streaming IndyCar Races in the U.S.
1. Major Live TV Streaming Services
Since all IndyCar races air live on FOX, major streaming services that carry local FOX channels are your go-to for seamless race-day coverage. Here are the top options:
- Fubo
Fubo is a sports-centric streaming service offering FOX, FS1, and FS2 in most markets, making it ideal for catching races, practice, and qualifying sessions. Plans start at $59.99/month with a free trial for new users, providing access to over 200 channels, including ESPN, NBC, and CBS for additional motorsports content. Fubo’s cloud DVR lets you record races for later viewing, perfect for fans with busy schedules. Check your ZIP code on Fubo’s website to confirm local FOX availability. - YouTube TV
YouTube TV offers FOX, FS1, and FS2 in its $82.99/month plan, with unlimited cloud DVR storage and support for six household accounts. It’s a reliable choice for streaming IndyCar races live, with a free trial for new subscribers. YouTube TV’s intuitive interface and robust channel lineup make it a fan favorite for sports enthusiasts. - Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV includes FOX, FS1, FS2, and over 75 channels for $76.99/month, bundling live sports with Hulu’s on-demand library. Its cloud DVR and multi-device streaming capabilities ensure you can watch IndyCar races anywhere. Fans who enjoyed Peacock’s IndyCar coverage in prior years may find Hulu’s interface familiar and user-friendly. - DIRECTV STREAM
DIRECTV STREAM’s sports-focused packages start at $49.99/month for the first three months (then $69.99), including FOX, FS1, and FS2 in select markets. It’s a solid option for fans seeking comprehensive sports coverage, with a cloud DVR for recording races. Verify FOX availability in your area before subscribing.
Note: Sling TV, while affordable at $40/month, does not carry local FOX channels in most markets, making it unsuitable for live IndyCar race streaming. However, Sling Blue includes FS1 and FS2, which may suffice for practice and qualifying sessions.
2. FOX Sports App
The FOX Sports App is a key streaming tool for IndyCar fans with cable or streaming service credentials. Available on smartphones, tablets, Roku, Apple TV, and smart TVs, the app streams all IndyCar races live on FOX, plus practice and qualifying on FS1 and FS2. To access live content, you’ll need to authenticate with a cable provider or a live TV streaming service (e.g., Fubo, YouTube TV). The app also offers highlights, replays, and exclusive IndyCar content, making it a must-have for fans on the go. Download it free from the App Store, Google Play, or your device’s app marketplace.
3. IndyCar Live
IndyCar Live is the series’ direct-to-consumer streaming platform, expanded in 2025 to offer U.S. fans access to practice, qualifying, and races. However, races are available with a 24-hour delay, making it less ideal for live viewing but perfect for replays. Priced at $20/year, IndyCar Live is a budget-friendly option for fans who prioritize on-demand content or live practice sessions. The platform is accessible via the IndyCar website or app, with AirPlay or casting support for Apple TV and Google Chromecast. Check IndyCar.com for updates, as the platform may evolve with the FOX partnership.
4. Over-the-Air (OTA) Antenna
For fans seeking a free solution, a digital antenna offers access to FOX’s over-the-air broadcasts, provided you’re in a good reception area. Antennas cost $20–$30 at retailers like Amazon or Best Buy and require no subscription. This method is ideal for live IndyCar races but doesn’t include FS1/FS2 for practice or qualifying. Use the FCC’s TV reception map (fcc.gov) to check FOX signal strength in your area. Pairing an antenna with IndyCar Live for practice sessions creates a cost-effective viewing setup.
International Streaming Options
IndyCar’s global appeal spans over 200 countries, with tailored broadcast and streaming solutions for international fans. Here’s how to watch IndyCar races outside the U.S.:
- Canada: TSN+ streams all IndyCar races, practice, and qualifying live, with seven key races (e.g., Indy 500, Toronto) airing on TSN’s linear channels. IndyCar Live offers practice and replays (races delayed by seven days). Subscribe to TSN+ via tsn.ca or the TSN app.
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports F1 broadcasts all races and practice sessions live, with evening race times due to the time difference. IndyCar Live provides practice and delayed race replays (seven days post-race). Check sky.com for subscription details.
- Australia and New Zealand: Stan Sport (Australia) and Sky Sports (New Zealand) stream all IndyCar content live, with early morning race times due to the time zone. IndyCar Live offers practice and delayed replays. Visit stan.com.au or sky.co.nz for plans.
- Other Regions: IndyCar Media has secured deals for 150+ nations. Visit IndyCar.com’s “How to Follow” page for a full list of international broadcasters. If your country lacks a broadcaster, IndyCar Live may provide live practice and delayed race access.
Using a VPN for Streaming IndyCar Races
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can unlock IndyCar streaming options by bypassing geographic restrictions. For example, U.S. fans traveling abroad can connect to a U.S. VPN server to access Fubo or the FOX Sports App, while international fans can use a VPN to access IndyCar Live’s U.S. content. ExpressVPN is a top choice, offering servers in 105 countries, fast streaming speeds, and support for eight simultaneous connections. Follow these steps:
- Subscribe to a VPN (e.g., ExpressVPN at expressvpn.com).
- Connect to a server in the desired country (e.g., U.S. for FOX Sports App).
- Access your streaming service (Fubo, YouTube TV, or IndyCar Live).
- Enjoy IndyCar races in HD.
ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 support, making it a low-risk option for motorsport fans. Note that using a VPN to circumvent copyright restrictions is against some platforms’ terms of service, so proceed with caution.
Free and Low-Cost Viewing Options
While live IndyCar races require a subscription or antenna, fans can explore free or affordable alternatives:
- Free Trials: Fubo, YouTube TV, and Hulu + Live TV offer 7–14-day free trials, allowing you to stream races without upfront costs. Cancel before the trial ends to avoid charges.
- IndyCar YouTube Channel: The official IndyCar YouTube channel streams select events, like the Indy 500 Open Test, and posts highlights, driver interviews, and race recaps. Subscribe for free at youtube.com/@IndyCar.
- SiriusXM IndyCar Nation: Listen to live race audio on SiriusXM channel 218, with a free first-month trial. It’s a great alternative for fans who can’t stream video but want flag-to-flag coverage.
- IndyCar Live ($20/year): For replays and live practice, IndyCar Live is a steal compared to monthly streaming services.
Enhancing Your IndyCar Streaming Experience
To make the most of your 2025 IndyCar streaming, consider these tips:
- High-Speed Internet: Streaming HD sports requires at least 10 Mbps. Test your connection at speedtest.net and upgrade if needed for buffer-free viewing.
- Multi-Device Setup: Use the FOX Sports App or IndyCar App on phones, tablets, or smart TVs for flexibility. Casting to a big screen enhances the race-day vibe.
- INDYCAR App: Download the free IndyCar App for live leaderboards, driver stats, and lap-by-lap updates, syncing perfectly with your stream.
- Fantasy and Social Media: Join the IndyCar Fantasy Challenge via the GridRival App or follow @IndyCar on X, Instagram, and TikTok for real-time updates and fan engagement.
- DVR and Replays: Record races with Fubo or YouTube TV’s cloud DVR to rewatch key moments. IndyCar Live’s on-demand replays are ideal for post-race analysis.
Challenges and Considerations
The move from NBC/Peacock to FOX has sparked mixed reactions. Peacock’s $5.99/month plan offered live races, practice, and ad-free replays, a fan-favorite for its affordability and flexibility. FOX’s reliance on cable-like streaming services ($50–$80/month) or antennas may feel like a step back for cord-cutters. Practice and qualifying on FS1/FS2 require pricier subscriptions, and IndyCar Live’s 24-hour race delay frustrates fans seeking live action. However, FOX’s network TV exposure boosts IndyCar’s visibility, potentially attracting new viewers and sponsors.
FOX plans to launch a standalone “FOX One” streaming service by late 2025, which could bundle FOX, FS1, and FS2 for a lower cost, offering hope for 2026. Until then, combining an antenna for races with IndyCar Live for practice provides a budget-conscious workaround.
The 2025 IndyCar Schedule: Key Dates
Plan your streaming with these marquee events (all times ET, subject to change):
- March 2: Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg (12:00 PM, FOX)
- March 23: The Thermal Club INDYCAR Grand Prix (3:00 PM, FOX)
- April 13: Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach (4:30 PM, FOX)
- May 25: 109th Indianapolis 500 (12:45 PM, FOX)
- June 15: Bommarito Automotive Group 500 (8:00 PM, FOX)
- August 31: Nashville Superspeedway (TBD, FOX)
Visit IndyCar.com for the full schedule and practice/qualifying times.
Why Stream IndyCar in 2025?
The 2025 season is a must-watch, with Alex Palou chasing a historic three-peat championship, rising stars like Kyle Kirkwood and Marcus Armstrong vying for wins, and new teams like Prema Racing shaking up the grid. The FOX partnership promises enhanced production quality, with Will Buxton, Townsend Bell, and James Hinchcliffe delivering expert commentary. Whether you’re streaming the Indy 500’s high-stakes drama or a nail-biting street circuit battle, IndyCar’s blend of speed, strategy, and skill captivates fans worldwide.
Conclusion
Streaming IndyCar races in 2025 is more accessible than ever, thanks to FOX’s network coverage and robust streaming options like Fubo, YouTube TV, and the FOX Sports App. Budget-conscious fans can leverage antennas and IndyCar Live, while international viewers enjoy tailored broadcasts. With a VPN, free trials, and the IndyCar App, you’re equipped to catch every lap, from St. Petersburg to Nashville. Gear up for a thrilling season and stream IndyCar like a pro!