President Donald Trump attended the first IndyCar race held on the streets of Washington, DC, as the city hosted the Freedom 250 Grand Prix during the United States' 250th anniversary celebrations. The event brought high-speed racing to the nation's capital and marked one of the biggest sporting events held in downtown Washington in recent years. Trump joined First Lady Melania Trump and other officials before the race began. He waved the green flag to start the event after receiving guidance on how to hold it correctly during the opening ceremony. The moment quickly became one of the day's most talked-about scenes. The Freedom 250 Grand Prix took place on a 1.7-mile street circuit built around major landmarks in Washington. Drivers completed 147 laps, covering about 250 miles through roads near the US Capitol, the National Mall, museums, and other historic buildings. The race was part of a wider national celebration marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Thousands of fans gathered across the city to watch the event. Washington made major changes to prepare for the race. Officials welded down more than 200 manhole covers along the course to prevent them from lifting under the pressure created by fast-moving IndyCar vehicles. City teams also inspected streets, barriers, sidewalks, and public spaces before race day. Traffic routes changed across several downtown areas during the weekend to support the event. The National Gallery of Art also reviewed possible vibrations from the race cars. Museum staff took steps to protect outdoor sculptures and other exhibits located close to the racing circuit. The race route passed several famous locations, including the National Archives and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Organizers worked with local agencies to reduce risks to nearby public buildings and collections. Although the event was open to the public, it also featured many guests from Trump's administration and political allies. Melania Trump joined the president in the viewing area during the opening ceremony. Trump greeted several IndyCar drivers before the race. He shook hands, posed for photos, and spoke briefly with competitors before they entered their cars. During a television interview before the race, Trump said IndyCar owner Roger Penske had wanted to bring a race to Washington for many years. Trump said the project moved forward quickly after Penske met with him. Trump said previous efforts had failed for years but claimed the event was approved within minutes after their meeting. He described the race as larger than expected. The president also spoke about weather forecasts before race day. He said he expected clear skies despite predictions of rain earlier in the week. Before the official start, Trump rode in the presidential limousine, known as "The Beast," for a ceremonial lap around the street circuit. The vehicle carried American flags and traveled slowly around the course while spectators watched from grandstands. Military aircraft later flew over the city as part of the opening celebration. Officials temporarily paused flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport during the scheduled flyovers. Singer Christopher Macchio performed the US national anthem before engines started. A trained bald eagle also flew over the start line during the ceremony before returning to its handler. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum delivered the traditional command for drivers to start their engines. Moments later, the field began racing through downtown Washington. The race featured several lead changes before American driver Kyle Kirkwood crossed the finish line first. Kirkwood won the Freedom 250 Grand Prix after completing all 147 laps. The event added another major sports appearance for Trump during the summer. In recent months, he has attended several high-profile sporting events, including mixed martial arts competitions, football events, and other national celebrations. Supporters described the Washington race as a historic addition to the IndyCar calendar. They said the downtown course created a unique setting that showcased famous national landmarks during live racing. Critics raised concerns before the event about traffic disruptions, noise, and the impact on historic areas in the city. Officials said planning efforts focused on protecting infrastructure and maintaining public safety throughout the weekend. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser welcomed drivers before the race and said the city was ready to host the event. Local officials worked with race organizers, emergency services, and transportation agencies during the preparations. The Freedom 250 Grand Prix concluded without major reported incidents during the race itself. Organizers said the event attracted large crowds and strong public interest. House Speaker Mike Johnson later said he would like Washington to host the IndyCar race again next year. Supporters hope the Freedom 250 Grand Prix will become an annual event in the nation's capital as part of the city's growing sports calendar.