Donald Trump signs order for major street race in Washington D.C

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to begin the process of bringing an IndyCar race to the streets of Washington, D.C.

On Friday, in the Oval Office in the presence of Transport Secretary Sean Duffy and IndyCar owner Roger Penske, Trump signed an executive order confirming plans for the 'Freedom 250' to take place on the streets of the US capital. 

The race, which is planned for the weekend of August 21st-23rd will be the first-ever motorsport event in the US capital, to celebrate the 250th birthday of America, after the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

The logistics of shutting down Washington for the race are yet to be defined, with the race slotting in between a trip to Markham in Ontario in Canada and a double-header at the Milwaukee Mile the next weekend. 

Speaking after the signing ceremony, the full executive order was released, with Trump signing the document, which read:  "IndyCar racing is a source of pride and entertainment for our Nation, which is why I am pleased to announce the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C..

"This race, the first motor race ever to be held in our Nation’s capital near the National Mall, will showcase the majesty of our great city as drivers navigate a track around our iconic national monuments in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.

"For over one hundred years, American IndyCar racing has set the pace for motorsports. With speeds topping over 200 miles per hour, the cars and drivers inspire awe and respect in all who watch this quintessentially American sport."

The full executive order is available to read by clicking this link.