President Donald Trump made a striking appearance at the Daytona 500 on Sunday, taking laps around the track in the iconic "Beast" — the heavily armored presidential limousine. As a crowd of enthusiastic fans looked on, Trump displayed his presence at one of the biggest events in motorsports, reinforcing his reputation for blending politics with showmanship. The thrilling moment contributed another unforgettable chapter to the race’s history.
BREAKING: President Trump is taking laps around the track in the Beast at the Daytona 500. The man never stops!!
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) February 16, 2025
🇺🇸🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/FAhH3FuYXL
President Trump gets on the radio to all the drivers while taking a lap in the beast at the Daytona 500.
— Tim Young (@TimRunsHisMouth) February 16, 2025
"This is your favorite President..."
So cool! 🤣🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸pic.twitter.com/OWeIYXSgXb
Before landing in Daytona Beach, Florida, for the race, Trump’s Air Force One flew over the track, causing a roar of cheers and applause from the crowd.
Just listen to these announcers and crowd in their excitement about President Trump as AF1 does flyover at Daytona 500.
— Juanita Broaddrick (@atensnut) February 16, 2025
The excitement is overwhelming!!!
pic.twitter.com/e3U9iA2Ni6
Trump, who his granddaughter joined, was honored to lead the NASCAR drivers on a lap before the race began by being on hand for the start of the "Great American Race.” The president told FOX Sports’ Jamie Little that the drivers have “a lot of guts.” He touted that America was getting back on track, highlighting that people have “spirit” again— which Trump brought back in less than four weeks.
As drivers began to start their engines, Trump had one final message for them: “You’re talented people and great people and great Americans… I’m a big fan. I’m a really big fan of you people.”
He also told the drivers to be safe and to have some fun.