Trump caps summer of US 250th birthday at IndyCar race through Washington
IndyCar's Freedom 250 Grand Prix zoomed through the National Mall, past the US Capitol, down historic Pennsylvania Avenue, and around the National Archives, in the marquee event on Sunday afternoon.
President Donald Trump concluded the US 250th anniversary celebrations with a unique IndyCar race through Washington, showcasing the nation's iconic landmarks. The Freedom 250 Grand Prix, organized by IndyCar, raced along the National Mall, past the US Capitol, down Pennsylvania Avenue, and around the National Archives. The highly anticipated event attracted approximately 200,000 spectators, with free tickets available, while premium trackside club passes cost $5,000.
Trump's motorcade circulated the race course before he waved the green flag to commence the 250-mile (402-km) race at around 1:18 p.m. ET (1718 GMT). Typically, the green flag is waved atop a tower at the start/finish line, but Trump remained seated in his presidential box for Sunday's start. In July, drivers paid a visit to the White House to celebrate the beginning of the race course construction. This race marks the latest instance of Trump utilizing sporting events to celebrate the country and his second term.
The summer of events has presented a contrasting picture of Trump's approval rating, which has plummeted to its lowest point since he returned to the White House in January 2025. His political fortunes have been marked by a series of high-profile events, including a mixed martial arts bout on the White House South Lawn, presenting the FIFA World Cup champion Spain with the trophy, and participating in the "Patriot Games," a cross between a game show and track meet involving high school athletes. For Trump, these events have served to boost his profile, both domestically and internationally.
The IndyCar driver Pato O Ward, who races for Arrow McLaren, expressed his awe at racing in Washington. "We never thought we'd be racing here anytime in 2026," he remarked. "Everyone is excited to be here, and it's a pretty picturesque backdrop." Despite the criticism surrounding the track's original location near the US Capitol, the course was modified through an executive order, avoiding congressional approval.
Air traffic was temporarily halted at Washington's Ronald Reagan National Airport to accommodate military flyovers during the event. The city's roads remained largely unscathed, with drivers expected to reach speeds of up to 185 miles per hour (298 km per hour) on the Pennsylvania Avenue straightaway. Major sponsors included Boeing, SpaceX's Starlink, and Delta Air Lines.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
