Trump unveils Freedom 250 Grand Prix at White House

President Donald Trump hosted a showcase for the upcoming Freedom 250 Grand Prix at the White House on Monday, July 13, 2026, promoting the first-ever IndyCar street race scheduled for Washington, D.C., next month. The event featured prominent drivers, a live pit stop demonstration, and the presentation of a custom racing helmet to the president.

The race is set for August 22 and 23 as part of celebrations marking the nation's 250th anniversary. The 1.7-mile track will wind around the National Mall, passing landmarks including the National Archives, the National Gallery of Art, and the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, with a straightaway along Pennsylvania Avenue. Organizers expect cars to reach speeds exceeding 190 miles per hour.

At the White House showcase, Trump was joined by IndyCar champion Álex Palou, 2026 Indianapolis 500 winner Felix Rosenqvist, driver David Malukas, and Penske Corporation Chairman Roger Penske, whose company owns the IndyCar series. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy was also present. During the event, a crew performed a pit stop on Executive Avenue, changing a race car's tires in approximately six seconds.