President Trump waved the green flag to start the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, the first professional road race held in Washington, DC, on Sunday. The event marked the culmination of summer celebrations for the nation's 250th birthday. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump took a ceremonial lap in the presidential limousine, The Beast, before a new Air Force One flyover.

Driver Josef Newgarden won the race, securing his seventh career IndyCar victory. The 1.7-mile, 147-lap course reached speeds of 190mph past landmarks like the Capitol and National Mall, contrasting with the city's usual 55mph limit. Organizers expected roughly 140,000 attendees, many via a free ticket lottery, though premium packages cost $5,000.

The race required massive security logistics, including road closures, resurfacing, bolting manholes, and a three-hour airspace closure at Reagan Washington National Airport. The National Gallery of Art conducted vibration tests to protect its collection. Fans, some wearing Trump hats, lined the circuit.

American driver Colton Herta called racing through the capital "super unique" and "surreal." Earlier summer events included a UFC event on the White House lawn and a July 4 fireworks show.