Oscar Mayer Wienie 500: Back for Year Two with a Sizzling New Twist

## Oscar Mayer’s Wienie 500 Returns with Fan-Driven Sixth Competitor and Nationwide Broadcast

**CHICAGO & PITTSBURGH** – The unofficial start of summer is set to get a whole lot more interesting. Oscar Mayer has announced the return of its second annual Wienie 500, a unique motorsports event designed to celebrate America’s love for hot dogs. Scheduled for May 22 at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Wienie 500 will once again lead into the prestigious Indianapolis 500, aiming to capture the spirit of Memorial Day weekend, a period known for its significant hot dog consumption.

Last year’s inaugural event proved to be a runaway success, drawing 85,000 attendees to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and an additional 8 million viewers through its livestream. This year, Oscar Mayer is amplifying the spectacle with a full fleet of six Wienermobiles vying for the coveted “Top Dog” title. Key enhancements for 2026 include a new nationwide live broadcast, promising to bring the excitement to a broader audience, and an interactive “Pick Your Dog” voting bracket, allowing fans to directly influence the competition.

Each Wienermobile represents a distinct regional hot dog flavor. Last year’s champion, “Slaw Dog” (representing the Southeast), will be back to defend its title. Joining the race are established contenders Chi Dog (Midwest), New York Dog (East), Chili Dog (South), and Seattle Dog (Northwest). Following a disappointing performance, the Sonoran Dog has been bumped from the lineup, creating an opening for a new regional contender. Starting today, fans can visit the official @Wienermobile Instagram account to participate in the inaugural “Pick Your Dog” bracket. This fan-driven initiative allows participants to select from a fresh roster of seven new regional hot dog profiles or even give the Sonoran Dog another chance to qualify.

“The incredible response to our first Wienie 500 confirmed our belief in the passion fans have for our brand,” said Kelsey Rice, Brand Communications Director at Oscar Mayer. “This year, we’re not just building on that success; we’re accelerating it. We’re delivering an even more engaging and dynamic experience that puts our fans directly in the driver’s seat. With enhanced interactive elements and intensified competition, we’re creating an unparalleled live event that will undoubtedly leave everyone craving more.”

Fan-favorite traditions from the original Wienie 500 are set to return, including custom Wienermobile decals, spirited Hotdogger racing suits, the unforgettable “Wiener Song” anthem, and the grand trophy presentation at the “wieners circle” podium, complete with a celebratory mustard spray and the unique Borg-Wiener trophy. Oscar Mayer aims to deliver a uniquely delightful race experience that is sure to spark smiles nationwide.

For more details on the Wienie 500, the “Pick Your Dog” bracket, and updates on the selection of the sixth regional hot dog competitor, follow @Wienermobile on Instagram and @OscarMayer on TikTok.

**About The Kraft Heinz Company**

The Kraft Heinz Company (Nasdaq: KHC) is driven by its Purpose, “Let’s Make Life Delicious.” With approximately $26 billion in 2024 net sales, the company is dedicated to growing its portfolio of iconic and emerging food and beverage brands on a global scale. Leveraging its considerable scale and agility, Kraft Heinz unlocks the full potential of its eight consumer-driven product platforms. As a responsible global corporate citizen, the company is committed to making a positive sustainable and ethical impact while contributing to feeding the world in healthy and responsible ways. Further information can be found at www.kraftheinzcompany.com or on LinkedIn.