President Donald Trump presided over the inaugural Freedom 250 Grand Prix, a street race through the heart of Washington DC that transformed the nation's capital into a massive motorsport spectacle and drew both celebration and controversy.
US President Donald Trump officially opened the inaugural Freedom 250 Grand Prix on Sunday, waving the green flag to start the IndyCar race held on a 1.7-mile temporary circuit through the streets of Washington DC. The event, billed as part of the 250th anniversary celebrations of US independence, featured IndyCars racing past some of the nation's most iconic landmarks including the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian museums.
Preparations for the race were extensive: more than 200 manhole covers were welded down to prevent them from being sucked up by the speeding vehicles, and nearby institutions took measures to protect exhibits and artworks from potential vibration damage. The race also included a ceremonial flyover by military aircraft and the release of a trained bald eagle near the start line.
Kyle Kirkwood won the 147-lap race. Supporters hailed the event as a spectacular display of American energy and innovation, while critics questioned the cost and appropriateness of closing major streets and disrupting normal life in the capital for a sporting event. Organizers and some politicians have already expressed interest in making the race an annual tradition.
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