IndyCar drivers to zoom through D.C. streets, with Trump set to take lap in limo – The Washington Post

IndyCar drivers are set to zip through the streets of Washington, D.C., in a high‑speed showcase that will culminate with former President Donald Trump taking a lap in a limousine. The event, announced by the IndyCar Series and the National Park Service, will see a field of top drivers navigate a temporary street circuit that winds through iconic landmarks such as the National Mall, the Washington Monument, and the Washington Convention Center.

The race is part of a broader effort to promote motorsports in the nation’s capital and to highlight the growing popularity of IndyCar racing across the United States. By staging the event in a city that typically hosts political and cultural spectacles, organizers hope to attract new fans and showcase the excitement of open‑wheel racing to a diverse audience. The street layout will feature tight corners, straightaways, and a short pit lane, testing the drivers’ precision and speed in an urban environment.

Former President Trump’s participation has drawn significant media attention. The former president will ride in a custom limousine, completing a single lap around the circuit. While the limo will not compete against the race cars, it will serve as a ceremonial highlight, underscoring the event’s appeal to both sports enthusiasts and political figures. The decision to include Trump was reportedly made to boost the event’s visibility and to celebrate the city’s tradition of hosting high‑profile visitors.

IndyCar drivers will be briefed on the route and safety protocols, and the race will be conducted under the supervision of the Federal Highway Administration to ensure the safety of spectators and participants. The organizers have emphasized that the event will adhere to all federal and local regulations, including traffic control, emergency medical services, and crowd management.

This initiative follows a trend of motorsport series staging races in major cities to broaden their fan base. Similar street races have been held in San Francisco, Miami, and New York, each drawing large crowds and media coverage. By bringing IndyCar racing to Washington, D.C., the series aims to cement its status as a premier American open‑wheel championship while offering a unique spectacle that blends speed, history, and politics.