President Trump signed an executive order on Friday to bring IndyCar to Washington, D.C., for America250. The order directs the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Transportation to “designate a route through Washington, D.C., 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 describes the IndyCar as a “source of pride and entertainment for our Nation.”
“This race, the first motor race ever to be held in our Nation’s capital near the National Mall, will showcase the majesty of our great city as drivers navigate a track around our iconic national monuments in celebration of America’s 250th birthday,” the order asserts.
Roger Penske, the owner of IndyCar, said in a statement, “President Trump has bestowed an incredible distinction upon our sport, and we’re grateful for his trust and support as INDYCAR prepares to honor our country with a tremendous racing spectacle. This will be a truly memorable event that celebrates our country’s independence and the legacy of patriotism, innovation and excellence that powers motorsports across America.”
“We’re celebrating ‘Greatness with American Motor Racing,’ that’s going to be the name of the event,” President Trump said upon signing the order. “It’s going to be so exciting. And, I love the race. I don’t have a lot of time to watch it, but I love the racing.”
IndyCar explained that the street circuit will be “free to the general public and include vantage points of several majestic symbols of national pride and unity.”
