President Donald Trump Delivers Message To ‘Our Heroic Service Members’ Ahead Of Daytona 500 Arrival

Sunday’s Daytona 500 was a major event for auto racing fans of all ages — but a special guest in the stands made the race even more special for many in attendance.

Fresh off his appearance at the Super Bowl, Trump arrived in presidential fashion almost five years to the day since he last watched the iconic race from Daytona International Speedway. The latest visit made him the first sitting president to attend two Daytona 500 events.

Prior to the race, Trump released a message celebrating NASCAR and its commitment to U.S. troops, per Fox News:

“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.”

The president was seen riding around the track in The Beast before he chatted with NASCAR drivers and legendary racer Richard Petty.

He was on hand for the singing of the national anthem. He thanked U.S. military members for their service in his statement.

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

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His arrival attracted plenty of attention from those in attendance and many more who shared their thoughts via social media:

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

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

🚨 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

USA Today provided a brief history of presidential NASCAR moments:

Is Trump the first sitting President to grand marshal the Daytona 500?

No. He was the first to lead the pace car ahead of the race though.

Other presidents who have served as the grand marshal for the race include:

• George H. W. Bush (1978) – prior to his presidency
• George W. Bush (2004)

Jimmy Carter was arguably the biggest friend of NASCAR among presidents. As Georgia’s governor, Carter hosted three dinners for NASCAR drivers, owners, officials, and media between 1971 and 1975. He also waved the green flag for a NASCAR Cup Series race at the Atlanta International Raceway on April 4, 1971.

Here’s some additional coverage of Trump’s arrival in Daytona ahead of the race: