Trump’s IndyCar race to close 250th celebrations

President Donald Trump will cap the U.S. 250th anniversary celebrations with a unique auto race through Washington D.C., marking the inaugural event of its kind. The IndyCar's Freedom 250 Grand Prix will traverse through the National Mall, past the U.S. Capitol, along historic Pennsylvania Avenue, and around the National Archives, concluding on a Sunday afternoon. It is anticipated to attract around 200,000 spectators, with tickets being free. Those wishing to attend private trackside clubs can purchase passes for $5,000.

Trump himself will make an appearance, waving the green flag to commence the 250-mile race. He had previously expressed his excitement, stating, "I don't know if anything will ever top what we're going to be having" during a July interview.

This race is part of a series of sporting events that Trump has leveraged to celebrate the nation's 250th birthday, even as his approval rating has plummeted to its lowest point since he returned to the White House in January 2025, amid tensions with Iran. Earlier, Trump hosted a mixed martial arts bout on the White House lawn and presented FIFA World Cup champion Spain with the championship trophy.

The Washington race has not been without controversy. Initially, the track was intended to run through the U.S. Capitol grounds, but the proposal needed congressional approval and was delayed. Advertisements were prohibited on Capitol grounds, and the race cars, laden with corporate sponsors and billboards, would have violated these regulations. Trump circumvented this issue by issuing an executive order to have Transportation Department officials draft a course not requiring congressional endorsement.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy echoed Trump's sentiments, stating, "When you think about America 250, you also think about cars, and when you think about cars, you do think about freedom." In preparation for the event, air traffic at the Ronald Reagan National Airport will be halted for three hours midday Sunday for military flyovers, causing consternation among some residents. Additionally, major streets downtown will be closed due to pedestrian activity and security measures.