Verizon upgrades the 5G network for the Indy 500, promises speeds over 1.0Gbps at the track

Posted on May 20, 2026, 10 p.m.

Verizon Powers Up Indy 500 with Blazing-Fast 5G Network

The roar of engines is set to fill the Indianapolis Motor Speedway this Sunday, May 24th, as the iconic Indy 500 race approaches. With an anticipated massive turnout, similar to last year's 350,000 attendees who generated a staggering 61TB of mobile data, Verizon has been hard at work enhancing its 5G infrastructure at the legendary track. The carrier promises an unparalleled mobile experience for race-goers, boasting speeds that could redefine connectivity at such a high-traffic event.

Verizon's commitment to delivering superior 5G performance has involved extensive preparation, including months of dedicated work on the track's network. The result is a significant upgrade to radio hardware, leading to an impressive 400% surge in bandwidth. This enhancement is crucial for managing the immense data demands of a large crowd.

Understanding the logistical challenges of entry, especially with the shift towards digital ticketing, Verizon has strategically deployed 33 specialized small cells at the main gates. This proactive measure is designed to streamline the ticket-loading process, ensuring a smoother and faster entry for hundreds of thousands of fans.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway sign, checkered flag flying.

The sheer scale of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, sprawling across 559 acres, has been addressed with a comprehensive 5G deployment. The track is now equipped with 240 5G mmWave nodes, complemented by 219 high-capacity antennas. Furthermore, local cell towers have been upgraded to the most advanced 5G standards.

Pre-event testing has validated the network's capabilities, showcasing download speeds exceeding 1 Gbps powered by the mmWave nodes. Under optimal conditions, these speeds have been observed to reach an astonishing 2.5 Gbps. Verizon's robust 5G network at the Indy 500 is poised to offer attendees unprecedented connectivity, allowing them to share their race-day experiences in real-time with incredible speed and reliability.

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