Trump caps summer of US 250th birthday at IndyCar race through Washington

President Donald Trump concluded the summer's celebrations for the United States' 250th anniversary with an unprecedented IndyCar race through the heart of Washington D.C. The Freedom 250 Grand Prix saw drivers speed past the capital's most recognizable landmarks, including the National Mall, the U.S. Capitol, Pennsylvania Avenue, and the National Archives.

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I don't know if anything will ever top what we're going to be having.

The marquee event, held Sunday afternoon, was anticipated to draw approximately 200,000 spectators, with free general admission tickets. Exclusive trackside club passes were available for $5,000. President Trump's motorcade completed an honorary lap before he officially started the 402-km race by waving the green flag from his presidential box.

This race is the latest in a series of high-profile sporting events President Trump has utilized to celebrate the nation and his second term. These events have occurred even as the U.S. is engaged in a war with Iran and Trump's approval ratings have reached their lowest point since he returned to the White House in January 2025.

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We never thought that we were going to be racing here anytime in 2026.

Earlier in the summer, Trump hosted a professional mixed martial arts bout on the White House South Lawn and presented a trophy to the FIFA World Cup champion Spain. He also appeared at the "Patriot Games," a televised competition for high school athletes. These events have served to boost Trump's domestic and global profile. IndyCar driver Pato O'Ward expressed excitement about racing in such a picturesque and unexpected location.

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Everyone's excited that we're here and, I mean, it's a pretty picturesque backdrop.