News Summary
St. Petersburg is set for the thrilling Firestone Grand Prix from February 28 to March 2, 2025. This year’s focus is on enhanced safety measures in partnership with Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital, which will provide essential medical support during the event. Numerous community events are planned leading up to the big race, including a 5K run and the INDYCAR Party in the Park. With reasonably priced tickets and exciting racing series featured, this Grand Prix weekend promises to be unforgettable for both fans and participants.
St. Petersburg Gears Up for an Exciting Race Weekend with Enhanced Safety Measures
St. Petersburg is buzzing with excitement as the Firestone Grand Prix prepares for its thrilling 2025 race weekend, set to take place from February 28 to March 2. This year, the event is not just about high-speed thrills; it’s also focusing on enhanced safety as it partners with Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital, who has renewed their commitment as the official healthcare partner through 2028.
Safe Racing is the Name of the Game
For years now, Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital has played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the thousands of race fans and approximately 100 race car drivers participating in the event. A dedicated team of emergency medicine physicians, registered nurses, and nursing assistants will be stationed at the Grand Prix festival grounds throughout the weekend, ready to respond to any medical needs that arise.
CPR Certification: A Priority for Volunteers
In preparation for the race, volunteers are getting onboard with vital CPR training provided for free by Orlando Health. This initiative not only equips volunteers with life-saving skills but also underscores the significance of being prepared for emergencies. In fact, cardiac arrest affects over 365,000 individuals each year outside of medical facilities in the United States, making this training incredibly important.
A recent group of Grand Prix volunteers has successfully completed their CPR certification training at Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital. You can rest assured that many folks on the field will be ready to spring into action if needed during the race weekend.
Exciting Events Leading Up to the Big Race
The 2025 Grand Prix isn’t just about racing; it’s an entire festival of fun and community spirit. There will be a host of exciting events leading up to the main event, including the INDYCAR Party in the Park and a 5K Run on February 27. The INDYCAR Party in the Park is free and open to the public, featuring driver appearances, live music, and a variety of food trucks, making it a can’t-miss start to the festivities.
The 5K Run is especially thrilling as participants will get the chance to race on the Grand Prix track starting at 5 p.m. ET. Even better, all proceeds from the run will go to the Police Athletic League of St. Petersburg, contributing to a good cause while having fun.
Catch the Open of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES
Mark your calendars because the 2025 race weekend will feature events from the prestigious NTT INDYCAR SERIES, making it an extraordinary occasion. This marks the 15th time that the INDYCAR series is opening its season in St. Petersburg, and it promises to deliver an exhilarating atmosphere as adrenaline junkies and families alike gather to support their favorite drivers.
Additional racing series during the weekend include INDY NXT by Firestone, USF Pro 2000, USF2000, and the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup, creating a racing bonanza that fans of all ages can enjoy.
Get Your Tickets and Join the Festivities
Tickets for this epic event are reasonably priced, starting as low as $30 for both 3-day and single-day options. The Grand Prix has become a staple event during Florida’s spring break season, adding to the festive atmosphere of downtown St. Petersburg.
For those who can’t make it in person, the excitement will reach homes nationwide as the race will air live on FOX. It’s no wonder the Grand Prix has been labeled one of FOX Sports’ 50 Events You Can’t Miss in 2025.
A Scenic Circuit Filled with City Landmarks
The Grand Prix circuit itself is an impressive 1.8-mile route featuring 14 turns that navigate through some of St. Petersburg’s key landmarks, providing a picturesque and thrilling backdrop for this exhilarating race.
Healthcare with Heart
As we count down to race weekend, it’s worth noting that Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital is a well-regarded 480-bed facility operating in the southeastern United States since 1910. In FY 2023, they positively impacted their communities with almost $1.7 billion in community benefits, showcasing their commitment to health and wellness.
Get ready for a weekend filled with adrenaline, community, and lifesaving training in St. Petersburg, as the Grand Prix rolls into town, combining speed and safety like never before.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
St. Petersburg Increases Security for Upcoming Events
Additional Resources
- Speedway Digest: Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital Returns as Official Healthcare Partner
- Wikipedia: CPR
- WRIC: Free CPR & AED Training
- Google Search: Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg
- Encyclopedia Britannica: IndyCar Series

Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.