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Donald Trump will attend the Daytona 500 for the second time as president, reinforcing his connection with NASCAR fans. His previous visit in 2020 included a grand entrance and a presidential flyover.
Donald Trump at Daytona 500
UPDATED: Feb 16, 2025 23:26 IST
WEST PALM BEACH: Donald Trump is set to attend Sunday’s Daytona 500 for the second time as president, further solidifying his image as a sports enthusiast.
He previously attended the race in 2020 while campaigning for a second term. That year, Trump was honored as the grand marshal of NASCAR’s biggest and most prestigious event, delivering the command for drivers to start their engines.
Trump also thrilled thousands of NASCAR fans with an Air Force One flyover before making a dramatic entrance onto the Daytona Speedway in the presidential limousine.
Last weekend, the Republican made history as the first sitting president to attend the Super Bowl. He is also known for attending college football games, UFC fights, and is an avid golfer.
When asked in a 2020 Fox News interview what he enjoyed most about NASCAR, Trump praised the bravery and courage of drivers in pursuit of “pure American glory.”
He described the Daytona 500 as a “legendary display of roaring engines, soaring spirits, and the American skill, speed, and power that we’ve been hearing about for so many years.”
“The tens of thousands of patriots here today have come for the fast cars and world-class motorsports. But NASCAR fans never forget that no matter who wins the race, what matters most is God, family, and country,” Trump said.
The sport’s fanbase is widely regarded as conservative-leaning.
At the White House in 2018, Trump honoured NASCAR Cup Series champion Martin Truex Jr. and Furniture Row Racing for their achievements.
Last May, as a former president and candidate for reelection, Trump attended the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway in the swing state of North Carolina.
One NASCAR driver noted the significance of a presidential visit.
“Having a president on hand for one of our biggest days of the year is special,” said Chase Elliott.
“It certainly brings a lot of eyes and a different perspective to what we do down here for this race.”
(Source: Associated Press)
Published By:
indiatodayglobal
Published On:
Feb 16, 2025
