Rain halts Daytona 500 after 11 laps, featuring Trump at NASCAR’s premier event

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — The highly anticipated Daytona 500 faced an unexpected halt on Sunday after just 11 laps, as rain swept across the Daytona International Speedway. This disruption occurred shortly after President Donald Trump, escorted in his prominently fortified limousine known as “The Beast,” took the drivers around the track for ceremonial laps.

As the race commenced, the caution flag was waved with defending champion William Byron leading the pack. The rain began to fall particularly in turns one and two, creating unsafe conditions for the drivers competing on the 2 1/2-mile track.

During his appearance, Trump addressed the drivers while guiding them on their laps, expressing support and admiration for their skills. “This is your favorite president. I’m a big fan. I am a really big fan of you people,” stated Trump. He continued, “How you do this I don’t know, but I just want you to be safe. 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.”

Earlier in the week, NASCAR officials adjusted the race start time to 2 p.m. Eastern in anticipation of rain, moving it up by 70 minutes from the originally planned green flag. Forecasts predicted inclement weather in the area from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., with a striking 99% chance of rainfall. Given the two-hour process required to dry the track, race officials indicated that it could be as late as 7 p.m. before the competition could potentially continue.

In a notable appearance, actor Anthony Mackie, who is famously known for his role as “Captain America,” graced the event and had the honor of giving the command for drivers to start their engines.