President Donald Trump has announced plans for an IndyCar race through the streets of Washington DC on 23 August, as part of celebrations for America's 250th birthday. The race, which would see cars reach speeds of up to 200mph past the White House, was outlined in an executive order signed Friday alongside Roger Penske, owner of Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IndyCar.
The proposed route includes the National Mall, with the executive order giving the Departments of Transportation and the Interior two weeks to designate a suitable course. However, organisers acknowledged they had long lobbied Congress to authorise a road race in the capital without success, suggesting potential hurdles ahead.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy described the event as 'wild', envisioning cars travelling at 190mph down Pennsylvania Avenue. The race would be free for the public, with Duffy declaring: 'Freedom, America. Speed. And road racing. It doesn't get more American than that.'
The event continues Trump's focus on sports during his second term, with most domestic travel centred around major games. He is also promoting a UFC fight for 14 June on the White House grounds, coinciding with his 80th birthday, but will not attend the upcoming Super Bowl in California, citing travel distance.
