CELEBRITY
JUST IN: President Trump signs executive order bringing IndyCar race to DC for America250
President Donald Trump will sign an executive order Friday in an effort to have an IndyCar race on the streets of Washington, D.C., for America250, Fox News Digital confirmed.
NBC News initially reported the news, saying that the race, which would be titled the “America250 Grand Prix,” would take place the weekend of Aug. 21-23. IndyCar normally runs on Sundays, and there is no event currently scheduled for that weekend.
According to NBC News, an order that hasn’t been made public yet will tell the Interior and Transportation departments to “coordinate with the Mayor” and plan a race route near the National Mall “that showcases the majesty of Washington, D.C., and its iconic national monuments,” based on a fact sheet.
NBC News also reports, citing the White House, that the departments are expected to “expeditiously” secure the needed permits and approvals, and that Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy will have the authority “to use available funds to facilitate the race.”
“President Trump has bestowed an incredible distinction upon our sport and we’re grateful for his trust and support as INDYCAR prepares to honor our country with a tremendous racing spectacle,” IndyCar owner Roger Penske said in a statement to the outlet. “This will be a truly memorable event that celebrates our country’s independence and the legacy of patriotism, innovation and excellence that powers motorsports across America.”
The Department of Transportation was making a push to hold a race on the National Mall as part of the celebration, FOX Business confirmed last week.
In conjunction with the push, Trump posted to Truth Social an AI-generated video promoting the race. The video featured fans around the National Mall and drivers speeding through a Washington, D.C., raceway.
“The Grand Prix is an unprecedented opportunity to celebrate our nation’s proud racing pedigree, showcase the beauty of the National Mall and generate millions in critical tourism revenue for the capital,” a Department of Transportation spokesperson said.
“The Trump Administration is determined to make D.C. great again, and this race is another example of that commitment. We’ll keep working with our partners in Congress to outline the positive impacts it will have on the District and correct the record.”
The event does have a roadblock ahead of it, though, as advertising on Capitol grounds is forbidden. Racing vehicles are often littered with ads.
It is not clear exactly where the track would be located, but the video Trump posted featured the Capitol, Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.
There is also a UFC event planned for the South Lawn on June 14, Trump’s 80th birthday.
