NASCAR drivers reach speeds of about 200 mph when the green flag of the Daytona 500 takes place on Sunday, starting at Daytona International Speedway.
President Donald Trump was holding his hand towards the start of the “Great American Race.” We led the driver on laps before the race began. This is his second time attending an event.
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President Donald Trump will shake hands with NASCAR Hall of Fame Driver Richard Petty at the NASCAR Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on Sunday, February 16, 2025 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (AP Photo/John Rouse)
Prior to the driver's call to start the engine, Trump spoke with Fox Sports' Jamie Little, celebrating the racers for their competition at the event.
“They have the courage to do this. I saw it and I was here,” the president said. “As they say, they have a lot of courage.”
Trump, whose granddaughter joined the track, highlighted US progress since starting his second term as president.
“I think it's great. I think it's great for the country,” he said. “The country is on track again. We have a spirit all over the world. We have a spirit again, we have a spirit, we have it back, and it takes less than four weeks. You're what we're doing. You can see what it is. But this is very exciting.”
Trump had radioed the driver before the green flag waving.
President Donald Trump will speak with his granddaughter Carolina in an interview in Florida on Sunday, February 16th, 2025 at the NASCAR Daytona 500. (AP Photo/Chris O'Miara)
NASCAR fans cheer as Trump arrives at the Daytona 500 in Air Force 1
“This is your favorite. I'm a big fan. I'm a really big fan of your people. People and great Americans have a lot of fun.
Trump promoted the American spirit in a statement before he arrived in Daytona Beach, Florida.
“This iconic race presents the fastest and most fearless drivers in motorsports that represent our country's love of tradition, competition and automotive innovation,” the statement read . “The Daytona 500 brings together people from all life, from lifelong racing fans to first-time audiences. They all take part in celebrating a common passion for speed, adrenaline and the thrill of racing.
“From the engine roaring on the truck to the echoes of “star nauseating banners” jumping over the stands, the Daytona 500 is a timeless tribute to the speed, strength and fortitude that makes America great. . What fuels America's golden age, and if we use it, the future is truly ours. ”
President Donald Trump arrived at Daytona Beach International Airport on Sunday, February 16, 2025, and waved on his way to NASCAR's Daytona 500. (Pool via AP)
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The presidents include Eric Trump, Luke Trump, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, John Paul Duffy, Patrick Duffy, Interior Secretary Doug Burgham, Kathryn Burgham, Todd Young, Ashley Moody, and hosts. Joined the track by Jason Smith and Byron Donalds. Mike Khalidporos.
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