The 106th running of the Indianapolis 500 will proceed without the famous balloon release.
The signature moment at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has been “indefinitely paused,” IMS representative Alex Damron said.
The decision was also confirmed by the president of the IMS, Doug Boles.
WATCH: WOMAN MIRACULOUSLY SURVIVES COLLAPSE UNDER MOVING TRAIN
The thousands of balloons released over the speedway on race day are biodegradable, IMS officials said, but groups like the Indiana Audubon Society have harshly criticized the practice.
These organizations allege that the balloon debris harms birds, fish, and other wildlife, according to a report.
Balloon debris can strangle the animals and, if swallowed, can result in death, the groups argue.
“BALLOONS POLLUTE AND KILL. #StopLitteringIMS,” a 2019 billboard read.
Balloons were last released at the race in 2019, but the practice goes back to 1947, the report noted.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
This year’s Indy 500 is slated for May 29.
