Last year's quirky pre-Indy 500 event is making a comeback and it looks like it's here to stay. The Oscar Mayer Wienie 500, where tricked-out Wienermobiles zip around Indianapolis Motor Speedway, is set to take place May 22, ahead of the 110th Indianapolis 500. As reported by FOX59, this event began last year to the delight, and perhaps bemusement, of thousands of race fans.
Defending champion, "Slaw Dog" representing the Southeast, is poised to defend the title alongside contenders like Chi Dog, New York Dog, Chili Dog, and Seattle Dog. However, the Wienermobile representing the Sonoran region has been booted from the competition due to, as Kelsey Rice, Oscar Mayer's Brand Communications Director, colorfully put it, "not cutting the mustard." This leaves the gates open for a new contestant, and fans can have their say by voting on Instagram for their preferred regional hot dog to join the race, according to Indianapolis Motor Speedway's official website.
Last year’s Wienie 500 drew about 85,000 in-person spectators and 8 million livestream viewers, according to Oscar Mayer. The event helped the company sell nearly 500,000 more wieners that weekend. This year, Rice said the company is supercharging the experience to boost fan engagement and rivalries.
As for the day of the race, attendees can expect the return of custom Wienermobile decals, Hotdogger racing suits and the iconic "Wiener Song." And let's not forget the trophy presentation, with the victor receiving the Borg-Wiener trophy amidst a shower of mustard spray, as chronicled by Indianapolis Motor Speedway. All these elements aim to reprise the festive and lighthearted spirit that made last year's Wienie 500 a hit.
According to WANE, Fans can follow Oscar Mayer’s social media for updates on the competition and the reveal of the sixth Wienermobile. With the sausage-themed festivities, this year’s Wienie 500 promises more fun and excitement during race weekend.
