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President Donald Trump delivers presidential message ahead of Daytona 500

by:Alex Byington•02/16/25•

_AlexByington

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Andy Abeyta/The Desert Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

President Donald Trump has released a special message as he lands in Daytona Beach ahead of Sunday’s Dayton 500 race. The 200-lap race kicks off at 2 pm ET.

“Today, I look forward to joining tens of thousands of American Patriots in Daytona Beach, Florida, for the ‘Great American Race’ — the legendary Daytona 500 — and the official start to the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series. This iconic race showcases the fastest, most fearless drivers in motorsports, who represent our Nation’s love of tradition, competition, and automotive innovation,” Trump’s statement posted to X/formerly Twitter on Sunday afternoon. “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.

“Since the very beginning, NSACAR has carried forth a proud tradition of honoring our heroic Service members for their unwavering courage. 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.

“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.”

Daytona 500 fans stuck in massive security lines ahead of President Donald Trump’s arrival

For NASCAR fans who weren’t able to get to the track early, long security lines are waiting for the Daytona 500 with President Donald Trump in town. Air Force One landed recently and it won’t be long before the Commander in Chief is sitting down for the Great American Race.

The Daytona 500 is sold out. There are thousands upon thousands of fans in attendance. Most are likely in the stands already or in the infield. Still, it looks like there are hundreds of fans waiting to get in half an hour before the green flag.

Jeff Gluck of The Athletic captured these photos around the time President Donald Trump was landing in Daytona. That’s going to take a while.

On3’s Jonathan Howard contributed to this report.