Donald Trump and his wife, Melania Trump, turned the Freedom 250 Grand Prix into a presidential spectacle before a single car crossed the start line. The commander-in-chief took his motorcade around Washington’s IndyCar street circuit and shared candid moments with drivers ahead of the historic race.
Donald Trump and Melania Trump take an honorary lap on IndyCar track
Donald Trump and Melania Trump took an honorary lap around the IndyCar Freedom 250 Grand Prix track in Washington, D.C., on Sunday, Fox News reported. The presidential motorcade circled the 1.7-mile course near the U.S. Capitol before the race began. IndyCar fans greeted the motorcade with loud cheers along the route.
The president then waved the green flag to start the race. He also spoke with several drivers before returning to the Beast. FOX Sports’ Jamie Little asked Trump about his first IndyCar experience.
“Just that everyone’s safe and they have a good time,” Trump said. “I want everyone to be safe. I want everyone to have a good time,” he added. Trump also shared his message to drivers before the race. “Good luck, have fun,” he told them.
The Freedom 250 Grand Prix formed part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Both IndyCar and the International Race of Champions series competed during the full weekend. The 147-lap race sent drivers zooming past the National Mall and Capitol.
Álex Palou, who had visited the White House earlier to attend the track course unveiling, started in pole position for the race. He reflected on meeting the president inside the Oval Office. “Incredible. Honestly, that’s the only word that comes to mind,” Palou said. “I know I’m not from this country, but this country has given me so much,” he added. Palou described building a family and career in the United States as an IndyCar champion.
Palou also recalled a lighter moment from the visit. “We got sprayed with Presidential cologne, which was pretty funny,” he said.
