The first major auto race in Washington, D.C., in more than 24 years is set for Sunday, as IndyCar holds its Freedom 250 Grand Prix to mark the United States' 250th anniversary. President Donald Trump is expected to wave the green flag and take a ceremonial lap in the presidential limousine before the 25-driver field competes over 147 laps on a 1.7-mile street circuit, covering a total race distance of 250 miles.
Organizers anticipate roughly 140,000 spectators on each day of the weekend, with the IndyCar series having held qualifying on Saturday. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy helped advance the event, having contacted race organizers in January to indicate it could proceed under an executive order signed by Trump that month.
Ronald Reagan National Airport announced a three-hour closure to coincide with pre-race festivities, while the race will be broadcast on Fox Sports.