President Trump signs executive order bringing IndyCar race to DC for America250
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President Donald Trump on Friday signed an executive order to bring IndyCar to the streets of Washington, D.C. for the America250 celebrations.
Trump was joined by IndyCar owner and president Roger Penske, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy in the Oval Office to announce efforts to host an IndyCar race in Washington. DC, later this summer. The event highlights another sporting event organized by the Trump administration in honor of the United States’ 250th birthday.
“We’re celebrating ‘greatness with American motorsports,’ that’s going to be the name of the event,” Trump said, adding that the event will take place Aug. 21-23.
President Donald Trump speaks as he signs executive orders in the Oval Office of the White House. The event took place in Washington, on January 30, 2026. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
“It’s going to be very exciting. And I love the race. I don’t have much time to watch it, but I love the race,” the president said.
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The president said the potential turnout could “set a record for racing.”
Added IndyCar owner and president Roger Penske: “This is a really incredible time for us as a company to support the country’s 250th anniversary. And there’s no better way to bring automotive and speed to the DC area and have the opportunity to be able to compete here where there are IndyCars.”
“As you know, we own the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and we’re taking that 100-plus year history and the speed and what’s happening there with the different manufacturers, and bringing it here to this race is going to be incredible,” he continued. “Certainly, Freedom 250, when you think about it, is just a byproduct of what the president has done this year. And this will be an event obviously in August, which will make a big difference. And we’re excited. The areas for people to view most of the grounds will be free. So, it will be an economic benefit for the area, for the city.”
US Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy speaks alongside Roger Penske, Chairman of the Penske Corporation, and US President Donald Trump as Trump signs an executive order in the Oval Office of the White House. Trump signed an order aimed at bringing an IndyCar race to the District of Columbia this summer as part of America’s 250th birthday celebration. The event took place in Washington, District of Columbia, on January 30, 2026. (Alex Wong/Getty Images)
News Sports CEO Eric Shanks also spoke at the White House and highlighted the World Cup, which will take place in the United States this summer.
“It’s a real honor to be a partner with Roger and IndyCar. And at News Sports, we host the biggest sporting events this year. We have the FIFA World Cup being held here as well. And then to fit in right after that to be able to celebrate America’s birthday on News, it’s an absolutely incredible honor,” he said. “And everyone at News Sports is eager to see exactly how this will play out and bring it to life. So, Mr. President, thank you again for signing this today.”
According to NBC News, the Interior and Transportation departments will work to “coordinate with the mayor” and plan a running route near the National Mall “that showcases the majesty of Washington, DC and its iconic national monuments,” according to a fact sheet.
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The Department of Transportation was pushing to hold a race on the National Mall as part of the celebration, News Business confirmed last week.
Along with the push, Trump posted an AI-generated video promoting the race on Truth Social. The video showed fans around the National Mall and drivers speeding around a Washington, DC race track.
“The Grand Prix is an unprecedented opportunity to celebrate our nation’s proud automotive pedigree, showcase the beauty of the National Mall and generate millions in critical tourism revenue for the capital,” a Department of Transportation spokesperson 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 hurdle ahead, as advertising on Capitol grounds is prohibited. Racing vehicles are often plagued with advertisements.
U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum (right) speaks with Bud Denker, president of Penske Corporation, as President Donald Trump signs an executive order in the Oval Office of the White House. Trump signed an order aimed at bringing an IndyCar race to the District of Columbia this summer as part of America’s 250th birthday celebration. The event took place in Washington, District of Columbia, on January 30, 2026. (Alex Wong/Getty Images)
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It’s unclear exactly where the runway would be located, but the video Trump posted showed the Capitol, the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.
There is also a UFC event planned for the South Lawn on June 14, Trump’s 80th birthday.
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