Trump praised NASCAR drivers for their “game” before Daytona 500, sending them special messages
When the season begins at Daytona International Racing, NASCAR drivers will reach nearly 200 mph speeds as the daytona 500 waves the green flag 500 on Sunday.
President Donald Trump was present at the beginning of the “Great American Game” and led the driver on a lap before the game began. This is his second time attending an event.
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President Donald Trump shook hands with NASCAR Hall of Fame driver Richard Petty at the Daytona International Racing NASCAR DAYTONA 500 at Daytona Beach, Florida on Sunday, February 16, 2025. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Trump spoke with Jamie Little of Fox Sports and praised the racers who participated in the race before calling on the driver to start the engine.
“They have a lot of courage to do it. I’ve seen it, I’ve been here,” the president said. “As they would say, they have a lot of courage.”
Trump, who joined the track by his granddaughter, highlighted the progress since the second president of the United States.
“I think it’s great. I think it’s great for the country,” he said. “This country is doing a great job again. We have spirits all over the world. And spirits, we brought it back, it’s not already possible. It’s been four weeks. You’ll see what we’re doing for a while. It’ll just get better.
Trump sent a message to the driver before the green flag was waving.
Donald Trump spoke with his granddaughter Carolina in an interview on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at NASCAR DAYTONA 500 in Florida. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara)
NASCAR fans cheered when Trump arrived at the Daytona 500 at Air Force One
“This is your favorite. I’m a big fan. I’m a big fan of you. There’s a lot of fun with people and great Americans.
Trump touted the American spirit in a statement before arriving in Daytona Beach, Florida.
“This iconic race demonstrates the fastest and most fearless drivers of motorsports who represent our nation’s love for tradition, competition and automotive innovation,” the statement said. “The Daytona 500 will bring people from all walks of life ( From lifelong racing fans to first-time audiences) come together, they all join a shared passion for speed, adrenaline and the thrill of race.
“From the roar of the engine in orbit to the echo of the ‘Stars and Stripes’ in the stands, the Daytona 500 is an eternal tribute to the speed, strength and indomitable spirit that made America great. What will drive the golden age of America, if We use it and the future is ours.”
President Donald Trump waved his hand as he arrived at Daytona Beach International Airport on Sunday, February 16, 2025 on his way to the Daytona 500 in NASCAR. (via AP pool)
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President Eric Trump, Transport Secretary Sean Duffy, John Paul Duffy, Patrick Duffy, Home Secretary Doug Doug Burgum, Kathryn Burgum, Todd Young and Ashley Moody as well as Rep. and Mike Haridopolos.
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