IndyCar set for historic 'big deal' moment after Donald Trump Washington order

Will Power believes the upcoming IndyCar race in Washington, D.C will be a "huge deal" for the series, after Donald Trump's order. 

On Friday, President Trump signed an executive order directing the federal government to begin the process of preparing for a full points IndyCar race around the streets of the US capital in August, dubbed the 'Freedom 250.'

The race would be celebrating the 250th anniversary of the foundation of America after the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, although major stumbling blocks remain. 

Just six-and-a-half months remain to design and build a track around the capital, get appropriate infrastructure in place to support the series, including staff, whilst there is also the problem of advertising not being allowed on the National Mall. 

A waiver would be required from Congress to bypass a 2003 law from Senator Jeff Bingaman banning advertising on the National Mall. 

Looking ahead to the race, two-time series champion, 2018 Indy 500 winner and now Andretti driver Will Power felt the news was "awesome."

"I think it is awesome for us," Power exclusively told RacingNews365.

"We're very good on street courses; it'll be another street course in the season, and it is going to be a big deal. 

"Racing around the capital is a huge deal for IndyCar. 

"As far as getting eyeballs on the series, it is great. I don't think it'll be bigger than the Indy 500, but I'm guessing it is just a one-off thing.

"I was impressed how quickly it came together, and it was actually like: 'Boom, we're doing this' because I know how hard it is to put on a street race."