IndyCars Zoom Through Washington D.C. for Freedom 250 Event, President Trump Kicks Off Race

President Donald Trump led a ceremonial lap in his armored limousine, "The Beast," today as part of the inaugural Freedom 250 Grand Prix, an IndyCar street race through Washington D.C. This historic event sees high-speed racing cars navigate a 1.66-mile, seven-turn course past iconic landmarks such as the U.S. Capitol, the National Archives, and Smithsonian Museums.

The Freedom 250 Grand Prix, which is expected to draw a large crowd of spectators, marks the culmination of summer-long celebrations spearheaded by President Trump to commemorate America's 250th birthday. Following his ceremonial lap, President Trump is also slated to wave the green flag, officially starting the competition.

The race itself covers 250 miles over 147 laps, with drivers reaching speeds up to 185 mph on city streets. Significant preparations were undertaken for the event, including welding down over 200 manhole covers to ensure safety. This D.C. street race is a first for the IndyCar Series, made possible by an executive order signed by President Trump in January to expedite planning and approvals.