Armstrong Puts MSR Fifth in Qualifying on Streets of D.C., Rosenqvist to Start 10th

Pataskala, Ohio (August 22, 2026) — Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) drivers Felix Rosenqvist and Marcus Armstrong completed the first official laps on the streets of the nation’s capital Saturday ahead of the inaugural Freedom 250 Grand Prix. After a challenging start to the weekend, Armstrong delivered a strong turnaround in qualifying, advancing to the Firestone Fast 6 and ultimately securing fifth. Rosenqvist will start Sunday’s race from 10th.

The 1.7-mile temporary circuit winds through the heart of Washington, D.C., passing iconic landmarks including the Washington Monument, U.S. Capitol and National Gallery of Art. The fast layout produced impressive lap times from the outset, with drivers breaking the one-minute barrier during the opening practice session.

Both MSR drivers used the two practice sessions to learn the new street circuit and its bumpy surface. After a difficult start to the weekend, the No. 60 and No. 66 crews made significant gains heading into qualifying.

Rosenqvist, carrying a special Texas A&M University-themed livery celebrating the university’s 150th anniversary, qualified 10th in the No. 60 Honda. The result marks Rosenqvist’s eighth top-10 qualifying effort of the 2026 season.

Armstrong debuted an Americana-themed livery on the No. 66 Honda in partnership with RE/MAX, celebrating the nation’s birthday and MSR’s first race in the nation’s capital. After struggling through practice, Armstrong found significant pace when it mattered most, advancing through the first two rounds of qualifying and earning a spot in the Firestone Fast 6.

Armstrong’s run to the Fast 6 came with an added challenge. A brush with the wall during the Fast 12 forced the No. 66 crew to change to a different set of Firestone alternate tires ahead of the final round. With less heat in his tires compared to the rest of the Fast 6 field, Armstrong gave everything he had in the single-car final qualifying session and posted a time good enough for fifth.

The Freedom 250 Grand Prix will air live on FOX, with an extended pre-race show beginning at 11:30 a.m. ET. The green flag is scheduled for 1:15 p.m. ET. Live radio coverage will also be available on SiriusXM channel 218.