January 30, 2026 / 10:12 PM EST
/ CBS/AP
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The streets of the nation's capital will host an IndyCar race this summer as part of celebrations marking America's 250th birthday, President Trump announced Friday, relishing the prospect of vehicles roaring past the White House at speeds approaching 200 mph. Mr. Trump signed an executive order establishing the race on Aug. 23 alongside Roger Penske, owner of Indianapolis Motor Speedway, IndyCar and teams in multiple racing series, including NASCAR."It's going to be so exciting," Trump said. "I love the racing. I don't have a lot of time to watch it, but I love the racing." The race will be called the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, according to the executive order. "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 reads.
President Trump displays a signed executive order in the Oval Office on Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, intended to launch an IndyCar race on the streets of Washington as part of a series of America250 celebrations.
