President Donald Trump made a high-profile appearance at the Daytona 500 on Sunday, receiving a warm welcome from NASCAR fans as Air Force One flew over Daytona International Speedway before landing at Daytona International Airport.
Moments ago, President Trump did a flyover on Air Force One at the Daytona 500. The view from above! #DAYTONA500 pic.twitter.com/DCX7d5iH9H
— Dan Scavino (@Scavino47) February 16, 2025
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The crowd erupted into cheers as the plane soared above the track, with the moment captured live on FOX’s race broadcast.
President @realDonaldTrump arrives at Daytona on Air Force One. pic.twitter.com/FB6xsxaVHj
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) February 16, 2025
Trump made history as the first sitting president to attend two Daytona 500 races at Daytona International Speedway.
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His first visit came in February 2020. Ahead of his arrival, Trump released a statement praising the event and its significance to American culture.
“This iconic race showcases the fastest, most fearless drivers in motorsports, who represent our Nation’s love of tradition, competition, and automotive innovation,” the statement read.
“The Daytona 500 brings together people from all walks of life—from lifelong racing fans to first-time spectators—they all join in celebrating a shared passion for speed, adrenaline, and the thrill of the race. From the roar of the engines on the track to the echo of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ soaring through the stands, the Daytona 500 is a timeless tribute to the speed, strength, and unyielding spirit that make America great. That spirit is what will fuel America’s Golden Age, and if we harness it, the future is truly ours.”
After landing, Trump made his way to the track and was seen riding around in The Beast, the presidential limousine, before mingling with NASCAR drivers and racing legend Richard Petty.
BREAKING: President Trump is taking laps around the track in the Beast at the Daytona 500. The man never stops!!
🇺🇸🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/FAhH3FuYXL
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) February 16, 2025
The president was also present for the national anthem, taking a moment to thank U.S. military service members in his statement.
🚨 NOW: MASSIVE cheering for President Trump as he’s shown saluting the National Anthem at the Daytona 500
This track is filled with TENS OF THOUSANDS of patriots! 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/WtZWGuxwwa
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) February 16, 2025
“Since the very beginning, NASCAR has carried forth a proud tradition of honoring our heroic Service members for their unwavering courage,” Trump said.
“While fans from around the world gather today at Daytona International Speedway, we extend our unending gratitude to the selfless men and women in uniform who risk their lives to keep us safe. When the engines start or the checkered flag waves, and all 500 thrilling miles in between, our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and Guardians stand ready to defend cherished traditions like this—and for that, we are truly thankful.”
Trump’s visit to the Daytona 500 comes just days after he attended Super Bowl LIX, where he witnessed the Philadelphia Eagles’ victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.
He was the first sitting president to attend the Super Bowl, further marking his presence at major American sporting events.
Before the race began, Trump offered his well-wishes to those competing and attending the event.
“Melania and I send our best wishes for a safe and successful race. May God bless our Armed Forces, and may He continue to bless the United States of America.”
With his second visit to the Daytona 500, Trump continues to maintain strong ties with NASCAR and its fans, reinforcing the sport’s deep connection to American values and traditions.
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Not since General Curtis LeMay has a major government figure been so supportive of auto racing. President Trump makes me proud of our sport with his warm support.
It is perverse, but my favorite part is the all-American Presidential celebration of a hyper-commercialized sport where rule-bending is an art form, built around bootleggers trying to avoid federal tax collectors. File under “politics makes strange bedfellows.”
For what it’s worth, there should never have been a need for bootleggers. Unfortunately, the folks who choose to go into government are way too greedy.