On Sunday in Indianapolis, one of racing’s most prestigious events will take place: the 109th running of the Indianapolis 500. But before names like Alex Palou and Josef Newgarden hit the track, a decidedly more delicious competition will unfold, because six Wienermobiles are racing.
Yes, you read that right. The iconic hot dog-shaped vehicles will take over the famous speedway in what’s being dubbed the Wienie 500, streaming live on the Fox Sports app on May 23 at 2 p.m. ET. It marks the first time in a decade that this many Wienermobiles have shared a track. The dogs are back and they’re here to ketchup on lost time.
Each Wienermobile represents a different regional type of frank. Here are the six dogs in the race:
- Chi Dog (Midwest)
- New York Dog (East)
- Slaw Dog (Southeast)
- Sonoran Dog (Southwest)
- Chili Dog (South)
- Seattle Dog (Northwest)
Like the big race, the Wienie 500 will feature custom Hotdogger racing suits, a trophy ceremony at the “Wiener’s Circle,” and mustard spray and a hot dog for the winner.
"The Indy 500 marks the unofficial kickoff of summer and the start of hot dog season," said Kelsey Rice, Brand Communications Director at Oscar Mayer, in a press release. "As a brand known for sparking smiles in disarmingly delightful ways, it's only fitting that we bring a race of epic proportions to the Speedway and celebrate a timeless tradition: delicious meats and a little friendly competition to kick off a summer of wieners.”
Fans can join the fun thanks to a partnership between Oscar Mayer and DraftKings. By answering questions about the race, fans can compete in a free-to-play pool with a chance to win a share of $10,000. To enter, visit DraftKings.com/wienie500.
With the Pacers also in town this weekend, Indianapolis is shaping up to be a mecca for sports action. But let’s be frank: the real question is which hot dog will relish victory.
So grab your favorite hot dog, clear your calendar, and tune in to the Wienie 500 on Friday. Only one dog will come out on top. And this time, it’s for all the bragging rights on the biggest stage.