Trump to open IndyCar Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington

Washington, United States. President Donald Trump will conclude celebrations marking the United States’ 250th anniversary by opening the first IndyCar race held through the streets of the capital.

Race route and attendance

IndyCar’s Freedom 250 Grand Prix will run through the National Mall, past the U.S. Capitol, along Pennsylvania Avenue and around the National Archives, with the main event scheduled for Sunday afternoon.

Officials said the race is expected to attract about 200,000 spectators. Tickets are free, while passes to private trackside clubs were sold for $5,000.

Trump’s motorcade will complete an honorary lap of the circuit before he waves the green flag to start the 250-mile, or 402-kilometre, race.

“I don’t know if anything will ever top what we’re going to be having,” Trump said in July, when drivers visited the White House to mark the start of track construction.

Summer sporting events

The race is the latest in a series of sporting events Trump has used to celebrate the country and his second term, as his approval rating has fallen to its lowest level since he returned to the White House in January 2025 and the United States is involved in a war with Iran.

Trump opened the summer with a professional mixed martial arts bout on the White House South Lawn. A month later, he presented the championship trophy to FIFA World Cup winner Spain.

Earlier in August, he attended the “Patriot Games”, a televised event combining a game show and track meet for high school athletes that was broadcast by ESPN.

The events have raised Trump’s profile domestically and internationally. The UFC fight card was streamed worldwide, while Trump remained at midfield during the World Cup trophy presentation as Spain’s players lifted the trophy.

Driver reaction

IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward of Arrow McLaren told Fox News Sunday that he felt “pretty surreal” ahead of the race.