Donald Trump was present at the Daytona 500 this past Sunday, an event he characterized as a unifying occasion that will “ignite America’s Golden Age.”
In a statement issued while en route to Daytona Beach, Florida, Trump remarked that the season-opening NASCAR event brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds, united by a “shared passion for speed, adrenaline, and the excitement of racing.”
“From the roar of engines on the track to the resonance of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ reverberating through the stands, the Daytona 500 is a timeless homage to the speed, strength, and indomitable spirit that define what makes America great,” Trump stated. “That spirit is the force that will propel America into its Golden Age, and if we can harness it, our future is indeed bright.”
In his inaugural address on January 20, Trump declared that “the golden age of America begins right now.”
Air Force One departed from Palm Beach International Airport shortly after noon, carrying several guests, including his son Eric, grandson Luke, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum along with his spouse, Kathryn, as reported by the White House. Numerous congressional members also accompanied Trump.
The aircraft landed less than an hour later after making a flyover of the Daytona International Speedway. This marked Trump’s second appearance at the event as president. His motorcade traversed a section of the racetrack.
Trump attended the race in 2020 while campaigning for a second term, where he was honored to serve as the grand marshal for NASCAR’s premier event and commanded the drivers to start their engines. He also delighted NASCAR enthusiasts with an Air Force One flyover before riding in the presidential limousine onto the Daytona International Speedway.
When asked about his favorite aspect of NASCAR during a 2020 Fox News interview, Trump cited the bravery and courage of the drivers chasing after “pure American glory.”
He referred to the Daytona 500 as a “legendary exhibition of roaring engines, elevated spirits, and the American talent, speed, and power that we’ve celebrated for so long. The tens of thousands of patriots gathered here today come for the high-speed cars and world-class motorsport, but they also remember that no matter who crosses the finish line first, the most important things are God, family, and country.”
NASCAR fans are largely seen as having conservative leanings.
Trump acknowledged NASCAR Cup Series champion Martin Truex Jr. and Furniture Row Racing at the White House back in 2018.
One NASCAR driver shared that having a president present for “one of our biggest days of the year is truly special.”
“It certainly draws a lot of attention and provides a different viewpoint on what we do here for this race,” noted Chase Elliott.
Trump is known to be a sports enthusiast; he enjoys golf and frequently attends college football games and UFC events.
Just last weekend, he made history as the first sitting president to attend the Super Bowl.
