Trump announces upcoming IndyCar race through DC streets -- including Pennsylvania Avenue

[mahatmakanejeeves]

Last edited Fri Jan 30, 2026, 07:08 PM - Edit history (1)

Trump announces upcoming IndyCar race through DC streets — including Pennsylvania Avenue

The Associated Press
January 30, 2026, 2:29 PM


President Donald Trump holds an executive order he signed in the Oval Office of the White House, Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)(AP/Evan Vucci)

WASHINGTON (AP) — The streets of the nation’s capital will host an IndyCar race this summer as part of celebrations marking America’s 250th birthday, President Donald Trump announced Friday, relishing the prospect of vehicles roaring past the White House at speeds approaching 200 mph. ... Trump signed an executive order establishing the race on Aug. 23 alongside Roger Penske, owner of Indianapolis Motor Speedway, IndyCar and teams in multiple racing series including NASCAR.

“It’s going to be so exciting,” Trump said. “I love the racing. I don’t have a lot of time to watch it, but I love the racing.” ... Penske suggested there was “no better way for us to bring automotive and speed into the D.C. area, and to be able to have the opportunity to compete here with our IndyCars.”

A news release from IndyCar said the route would include the National Mall, and the executive order gives the Departments of Transportation and the Interior two weeks to designate a route through Washington “that is suitable for conducting an INDYCAR street race and that will showcase the majesty of our capital city in celebration of the 250th anniversary of America’s independence.” ... The order also directs city and other officials to work closely with race organizers.

The event continues Trump’s embrace of sports during his second term: Most of his domestic travel has been built around attending major games and events — including the recent NCAA football national championship in Miami Gardens, Florida.

{snip}

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe he occasionally flies to Florida to get in a little golf. The schedule is confusing, but this looks like one of those weekends.

[TheFarseer]

1. This seems to be a legitimate news source

I’m so confused

[IronLionZion]

4. It's real. The Freedom 250 Race

https://www.indycar.com/news/2026/01/01-30-freedom250gp

[mahatmakanejeeves]

7. WTOP is definitely for real. NT

[pfitz59]

2. Indy Car race. WWE wrestling match.

'Idiocracy' brought to life.

[IronLionZion]

3. Just what we need on our city streets

I don't believe our city has ever had a car race like this. Baltimore has so it's probably doable.

That might be a good day to use metro instead of driving anywhere.

[Bluestocking]

5. This is what happens when a child is elected president

[Progressive dog]

6. What the hell does an Indy car race

have to do with America's 250th anniversary. I know the moron in chief claimed General Washington controlled the airports but where did he get this stupid idea?

[Midnight Writer]

8. We are getting circuses, but no bread.

[Bayard]

9. I'm sure the residents will appreciate that

The noise from those cars is incredible. My Dad took me to the Indy 500 when I was a kid. I couldn't hear for two days afterwards.

trump continues to be a total embarrassment to this nation. His, "embrace of sports," is a comedy, since he never played any in his life. Oh, I'm sorry--he plays golf. And cheats.

[oberle]

10. According to an article in the WaPo

rag, Mayor Bowser is on board with this shit. What a disappointment she is, but I suppose she must kiss his ass to continue to get what pittance the federal government gives DC.

[mahatmakanejeeves]

11. Discussion at Reddit:

Trump orders up IndyCar race on the streets of Washington for 'America250 Grand Prix'