Alex Palou set the fastest time in the final practice session for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, which was disrupted by several red flags. The session was important because it was the final opportunity for IndyCar teams to prepare on the Washington street circuit before qualifying.

The second practice began on a dry track after an earlier damp session had allowed teams to test wet-weather tyres. Graham Rahal brought out the first major red flag roughly 10 minutes in when the rear of his No. 15 Honda stepped out under braking and hit the wall, leaving the car stranded in the run-off area and costing him valuable track time.