IndyCar drivers amazed at downtown DC course: ‘It’s stuff that you dream of’
WASHINGTON (AP) — Even for well-traveled IndyCar drivers, a track with the U.S. Capitol in the background is a little awe inspiring. “We get to race at a lot of cool cities, but this one is by far the best that we’ve ever had, and I…
IndyCar drivers are astounded by the downtown Washington, D.C. race track, describing it as a site of unparalleled awe. "We race in many fantastic cities, but this one stands out as the best we've ever encountered," commented Kyle Kirkwood. "The views of the Capitol building, the stunning architecture, and the museums around us are truly dreamlike."
This weekend's Freedom 250 Grand Prix marks the second major event hosted by President Donald Trump in the nation's capital, as part of the country's 250th anniversary celebration. The first was a UFC fight card held on the White House's South Lawn in June. Though IndyCar racing is not typically associated with the right-wing "manosphere" or the MAGA movement, series owner Roger Penske received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Trump in 2019, and he spearheaded the effort to organize this race in the District of Columbia.
The drivers are relishing the spotlight. "The best part of this week has been the media coverage of us," Kirkwood remarked. "It's thrilling to see IndyCar receive such attention. Having an event of this caliber, as sought after as the Indy 500, is truly special." Washington has limited experience with high-level motorsports. In 2002, a parking lot at RFK Stadium on the city's eastern edge was converted into a track for an American Le Mans Series event.
However, the Freedom 250 takes center stage in one of D.C.'s prime tourist destinations. While the area will be bustling with road closures on race day, favorable weather could transform the setting into a spectacular spectacle.
Written by urgent.news from Associated Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
