Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed optimism that the upcoming IndyCar Freedom 250 Grand Prix, scheduled for this weekend, will serve as an event that "brings America together." The race, a first of its kind in the nation's capital, is set to feature top drivers and President Trump navigating a course along historic sites on the National Mall.
Duffy stated that President Trump is an enthusiast of sports, citing his involvement with UFC and now this racing event. "I think if you look at the political divide in America, this is an event that brings America together," Duffy told The Post in an interview. "Cars and racing is freedom and American."
The concept for Washington D.C.'s first IndyCar event originated with Duffy, along with Roger Penske and Bud Denker, president of Penske Corporation. The race will consist of 147 laps, covering 250 miles, on a 1.66-mile track with seven turns along the National Mall. Drivers are anticipated to reach speeds up to 190 miles per hour on Pennsylvania Avenue.
Preparations for the street race involved modifications to the roadway, including fastening manhole covers and grinding down surface bumps to ensure safety for the high-speed event. Organizers had initially aimed for a route around the Capitol building, but plans were adjusted, shifting the course westward to include the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. The start-finish line is positioned near the Capitol's reflecting pool.
Duffy noted the challenging nature of the course, emphasizing the skill required from drivers to navigate the tight turns. He also mentioned that he would be present to wave the checkered flag for the finishers. Earlier in the summer, Duffy had participated in a driving experience himself while filming a road trip documentary, an activity he hopes will inspire more Americans to explore the country's highways and landmarks.
An estimated 140,000 spectators are expected to attend the event. President Trump is scheduled to take a lap around the course in his armored vehicle, "The Beast," before the main race begins Sunday at 1:10 p.m. ET, accompanied by an escort. Practice and qualifying sessions are slated for Saturday.
While tickets for those along the outer perimeter of the course are free, premium seating options are available at prices up to $200,000. Duffy indicated significant demand for tickets as the event approaches. The reported $35 million cost of the race is being funded through donations from Penske and other corporate sponsors.
Duffy highlighted the potential economic benefits for Washington D.C., anticipating a surge in tourism with hotels and restaurants likely to be at full capacity during the three-day event. This influx of visitors is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy, especially during the typically slower August period.
President Trump authorized the race through an executive order in January as part of the nation's 250th-anniversary celebrations. While generally supported, the event faced brief opposition from some congressional Democrats concerning the advertisements planned for the race cars.