Trump flags off IndyCar race in Washington for U.S. 250th anniversary

Donald Trump marked the United States' 250th anniversary by flagging off the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, an IndyCar race held on the streets of Washington D.C. The event served as a festive departure from pressing national issues, including a military conflict with Iran, an escalating trade war with Canada, and declining approval ratings ahead of midterm elections.

The race was the culmination of three months of anniversary celebrations in the capital. Preparations had transformed parts of the city center into a complex obstacle course. Organizers anticipated at least 140,000 spectators would attend the event.

Trump has personally steered the anniversary festivities, positioning himself as the central figure. Previous events included a wrestling match at the White House, a fair, and fireworks on Independence Day. In August, he also presided over the "Patriot Games," a competition for high school students.

Before starting the race, Trump took a ceremonial lap in the presidential vehicle, known as "The Beast," around the circuit. The course wound past iconic sites like the Smithsonian museums and the Washington Monument. However, the Capitol building was excluded due to lawmakers' refusal to approve high-speed racing near their workplace or to grant exceptions to advertising bans on legislative grounds.

Military aircraft flew in formation overhead, a spectacle Trump frequently enjoyed during the anniversary events. He observed the race from a bulletproof glass-protected tribune, accompanied by his wife, Melania, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. He did not speak publicly during the event. Trump had signed an executive order approving the race in January and had promised in July that this Sunday's event would be "like no other."