Donald Trump launches Freedom 250 IndyCar Grand Prix at White House

President Donald Trump hosted a Freedom 250 Grand Prix showcase at the White House on July 13, featuring IndyCar champions Alex Palou, Felix Rosenqvist and David Malukas, team owner Roger Penske and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. A live pit‑stop demonstration highlighted the speed and precision of IndyCar racing.

The event announced the inaugural Freedom 250 Grand Prix, scheduled for August 22‑23 on a temporary 1.7‑mile, seven‑turn street circuit around the National Mall. Cars will reach speeds of over 190 mph, racing down Pennsylvania Avenue – the first IndyCar race ever held in Washington, D.C. Trump said it will be “like no other race ever” and “one of the most unforgettable racing events the world has ever seen.”

Tickets are free, distributed by lottery after more than 250,000 registrations, with capacity for about 100,000 spectators each day. Penske praised the “green light” from the president, while Duffy noted the effort of roughly 80 Capitol‑Hill meetings to secure the event. The race is part of celebrations for the United States’ 250th anniversary of independence.