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President Donald Trump will sign an executive order Friday in an effort to have an IndyCar race on the streets of Washington, DC, for the America250, Pakinomist Digital confirmed.
NBC News initially reported the news, saying the race, which would be titled the “America250 Grand Prix,” would take place the weekend of April 21-23. August. IndyCar normally runs on Sundays, and there is currently no event scheduled for that weekend.
According to NBC News, an order that has not yet been made public 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, DC and its iconic national monuments,” based on a fact sheet.
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A general view of the pit during INDYCAR Open Testing at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on April 23, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
NBC News also reports, citing the White House, that the departments are expected to “quickly” secure the necessary 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 honor on our sport, and we are 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 drives motorsports across America.”
The Department of Transportation made a push to hold a run on the National Mall as part of the celebration, FOX Business confirmed last week.
Indycar driver Pato O’Ward (5) drives across the finish line during the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at the Streets of Toronto. (Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images)
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In conjunction with the push, Trump posted to Truth Social an AI-generated video promoting the race. The video showed fans around the National Mall and drivers speeding through a racetrack in Washington, DC.
“The Grand Prix is an unprecedented opportunity to celebrate our nation’s proud racing lineage, showcase the beauty of the National Mall and generate millions in critical tourism revenue for the capital,” a Department of Transport spokesman said.
“The Trump administration is determined to make DC great again, and this race is another example of that commitment. We will continue to work with our partners in Congress to outline the positive impacts it will have on the District and correct the record.”
However, the event has a roadblock ahead of it, as advertising on the Capitol grounds is prohibited. Racing vehicles are often filled with advertisements.
United States Capitol building is seen in Washington DC, USA on December 2, 2024. (Celal Gunes/Anadolu via Getty Images)
It’s not clear exactly where the field would be located, but the video Trump posted featured the Capitol, the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.
A UFC event on the South Lawn is also planned for June 14, Trump’s 80th birthday.
