Chicago – August 23, 2026
President Donald Trump capped the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations on Sunday by launching the first-ever IndyCar race through the streets of Washington, D.C., in a historic motorsports spectacle.
Freedom 250 Grand Prix
The Freedom 250 Grand Prix saw open-wheel racecars speeds reaching up to 185 mph along a 1.7-mile course weaving past iconic landmarks including the U.S. Capitol, Washington Monument, National Archives, and Smithsonian museums. Drivers completed 147 laps—symbolic of the year 1776—covering a total distance of 250 miles to honor the nation’s semi-quincentennial.
Presidential Ceremonial Role
Before the race, Trump and First Lady Melania Trump took an honorary lap in the presidential limousine, “The Beast,” around the track. From the start-finish line in front of the Capitol, Trump waved the green flag at approximately 1:18 p.m. ET to officially begin the main event. He greeted series owner Roger Penske and seven Indianapolis 500 winners among the 25-driver field, wishing them “Good luck, do well, have fun.”
Event Scale and Access
Organizers expected roughly 200,000 spectators over the two-day event, with general admission tickets distributed free via lottery. Passes to private trackside clubs sold for $5,000. The race, approved by Trump’s January executive order, was promoted as a one-time-only celebration of America’s 250th birthday. Kyle Kirkwood won the inaugural Freedom 250 Grand Prix.
