This is amazing!
President Donald Trump signed a new executive order Friday that could bring IndyCar racing to the streets of Washington, D.C., marking a bold addition to the America250 celebrations honoring the United States’ 250th anniversary.
The announcement came from the White House, where Trump was joined by Roger Penske, chairman and owner of IndyCar, along with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
The administration confirmed it is moving forward with plans for a major IndyCar race in Washington later this summer, positioning the event as a centerpiece of Trump’s broader push to celebrate American history, industry, and innovation.
“Greatness With American Motor Racing”
Trump said the event will be branded “Greatness with American Motor Racing” and is tentatively scheduled for August 21–23. He described the race as an exciting, patriotic spectacle and predicted it could draw one of the largest crowds in racing history.
According to the president, the event is designed to showcase American engineering, competition, and national pride — values he has repeatedly emphasized during the America250 rollout.
Economic Boost and Free Public Access
Penske praised the proposal as a historic moment for motorsports and for the nation. He said bringing IndyCar to the capital is a powerful way to honor America’s 250th birthday while also delivering real economic benefits.
Penske noted that large portions of the viewing areas would be free to the public, helping drive tourism, support local businesses, and make the celebration accessible to families and veterans traveling to Washington for the anniversary.
Major Sports Media Support
FOX Sports CEO Eric Shanks also addressed the announcement, pointing to FOX’s role in broadcasting major global sporting events. He highlighted the opportunity to pair America’s milestone anniversary with a high-profile, American-made racing event.
Shanks said FOX Sports views the race as a natural extension of its commitment to covering historic moments that resonate with national audiences.
Route Planning Near the National Mall
According to NBC News, the Departments of Interior and Transportation will work with city officials to design a race route near the National Mall, showcasing Washington’s most recognizable landmarks.
FOX Business previously reported that federal transportation officials had already been exploring Mall-area options as part of the America250 planning process.
Trump also promoted the concept on Truth Social, sharing an AI-generated video depicting IndyCars racing past the Capitol, Washington Monument, and Lincoln Memorial.
Challenges Still Ahead
Some logistical hurdles remain. Advertising is restricted on Capitol grounds, which could complicate sponsorship placement typically seen on race cars. Officials have not yet confirmed the final track layout or how those rules may be addressed.
Still, administration officials say discussions with Congress and local leaders are ongoing, emphasizing the race’s potential to generate millions in tourism revenue and elevate Washington’s profile during the anniversary year.
Part of a Larger Celebration Push
The proposed IndyCar race is one of several high-profile events planned under Trump’s America250 initiative. The White House has also confirmed a UFC event on the South Lawn in June, underscoring the administration’s effort to combine patriotism, entertainment, and economic growth.
If approved, the race would mark the first IndyCar-style event ever held in the heart of the nation’s capital, cementing Trump’s America250 celebrations as some of the most ambitious in U.S. history.