President Trump is set to attend the Daytona 500 this Sunday for the second time during his presidency, aiming to strengthen his image as a sports enthusiast.
He previously attended the event in 2020 while campaigning for a second term. Mr. Trump was honored as the grand marshal of NASCAR’s premier event, where he commanded the drivers to start their engines.
In addition, he excited many NASCAR fans with an Air Force One flyover before arriving at the Daytona International Speedway in the presidential limousine.
Recently, he made history as the first sitting president to attend the Super Bowl. Mr. Trump also enjoys college football games, UFC events, and is an avid golfer.
When asked about his favorite aspect of NASCAR, he mentioned in a 2020 Fox News interview the bravery and courage of the drivers chasing “pure American glory.”
He characterized the Daytona 500 as a “legendary showcase of roaring engines, soaring spirits, and the quintessential American skill, speed, and power that we’ve celebrated for years. The countless patriots present are here for the fast cars and the world-class motorsport. But NASCAR fans always remember that regardless of the race outcome, the main focus is on God, family, and country.”
The fanbase of the sport is generally perceived to lean conservative.
During a visit to the White House in 2018, Mr. Trump honored NASCAR Cup Series champion Martin Truex Jr. and Furniture Row Racing.
Last May, as a former president and reelection candidate, he attended the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway located in the swing state of North Carolina.
A NASCAR driver expressed that having a president present at “one of our biggest days of the year is special.”
“It undoubtedly attracts a lot of attention and brings a fresh perspective to what we accomplish here for this race,” said Chase Elliott.
