Donald Trump adds motorsport to America 250 plans
Plans for a proposed IndyCar race through the streets of Washington, D.C. are moving forward as the White House looks to make sports a central feature of the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations this summer though the idea may still face political and logistical hurdles.
President Donald Trump on Friday signed an executive order supporting a street race tentatively titled the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, scheduled for August 21–23, according to reporting by The Spun. The proposal is part of the broader “America 250” initiative, which already includes events tied to the World Cup and the UFC.
The announcement came during an event with IndyCar owner Roger Penske and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. Trump framed the race as a showcase for American motorsports and emphasized that the course should pass through the most prominent parts of the capital, even if that complicates approvals.
“We're celebrating greatness with American motor racing,” Trump said, explaining that he instructed planners to prioritize the most iconic route rather than settling for an easier option.
Read also: How much each Premier League club spent in the 2025/26 season
If approved, the race would wind through areas near major landmarks, a concept Duffy described as unprecedented in scale. “To think, 190 miles an hour down Pennsylvania Avenue, this is going to be wild,” the transportation secretary said.
Penske said organizers envision a largely open event, with many viewing areas available to the public at no cost. He added that the race weekend could generate significant economic activity for the city through tourism and hospitality spending.
Local officials have reacted favorably so far. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser told WJLA she supports bringing the event to the capital, despite past policy disagreements with the president. She said the race would reinforce Washington’s growing reputation as a destination for major sports events and help fill hotels and restaurants during the summer period.
Under the executive order, the Departments of the Interior and Transportation would be responsible for designing the course and coordinating logistics. The race is expected to be broadcast live on FOX, according to The Spun.
Read also: Could FIFA legally remove the US as World Cup host?
Still, the proposal is not final. ABC reported that congressional approval is required for the use of certain federal land, and that resistance has already emerged on Capitol Hill a reminder that the ambitious plan could face delays before engines ever hit the streets.
Sources: The Spun, WJLA, ABC
Read also: A career Grand Slam, and a new era: Why Carlos Alcaraz feels different
