Donald Trump made his second appearance as president at the Daytona 500 on Sunday, calling the event a unifying celebration of American spirit.
He described the race as a symbol of strength and energy that would help fuel what he calls America’s golden age under his leadership.
Air Force One Flyover and Star-Studded Arrival
Before landing, Air Force One made a dramatic flyover of the Daytona International Speedway, thrilling fans below. Trump arrived from West Palm Beach with a group of high-profile guests, including his son Eric Trump, his wife, grandson Luke, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and his wife, Kathryn. Several members of Congress also accompanied him.
Trump Takes a Lap on the Track
Trump’s motorcade entered the speedway by driving onto the track itself, a moment met with roaring applause from the crowd. His limousine led the drivers in two ceremonial laps before he addressed them over the radio, offering words of encouragement.
“This is your favorite president. I’m a big fan. I am a really big fan of you people. How you do this, I don’t know, but I just want you to be safe,” Trump said. “You’re talented people and you’re great people and great Americans. Have a good day, have a lot of fun, and I’ll see you later.”
NASCAR Crowd Shows Support for Trump
The sold-out race saw strong support for Trump, with many fans sporting red caps featuring his Make America Great Again slogan. Trump himself watched from a luxury suite, also wearing a MAGA hat.
Weather Delays the Action
The race was halted after just eight laps due to heavy rain, which was expected to cause a long delay. Despite the interruption, the enthusiasm remained high, as NASCAR has long been associated with a conservative-leaning fan base that aligns with Trump’s messaging.
Trump’s Longstanding Ties to Sports
A passionate sports fan, Trump frequently attends major sporting events, from college football games to UFC matches. His return to the Daytona 500 underscored his ongoing appeal among racing fans, further cementing his connection to the NASCAR community.
