Kathmandu— Washington, D.C. is preparing to host the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, a 147-lap IndyCar race taking place on a temporary track through parts of the National Mall this weekend. Championed by President Trump as part of the country’s 250th birthday celebrations, the event has drawn both excitement and scrutiny regarding potential disruptions to the capital, financial backing from sponsors with government contracts, and concerns over its proximity to national treasures. The race is intended to commemorate American history and motorsport, but critics argue it undermines existing anniversary efforts and may serve a political agenda.

A Race Rooted in Anniversary Celebrations

The Grand Prix is one of several events organized to mark the United States’ 250th birthday. Earlier this month saw the inaugural Patriot Games for high school athletes, while Trump previously hosted an Ultimate Fighting Championship event on the White House lawn as part of the Freedom 250 initiative. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy drew parallels between the race and historical celebrations, noting that Washington D.C. hasn’t seen a similar competition since President Thomas Jefferson marked the country's 25th birthday in 1801 with horse races. However, some have criticized the ‘Freedom 250’ task force for potentially overshadowing America250, a bipartisan organization established by Congress to coordinate anniversary festivities.

Logistical Challenges and Preservation Concerns

The temporary 2.7-kilometer (1.7 mile) track cuts through the National Mall, bringing the high-speed race near iconic landmarks like the National Gallery of Art and the National Archives, home to the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The National Gallery has taken precautions, boarding up windows and erecting barriers around outdoor artwork. Preservationists have also voiced concerns that vibrations from the cars—which are expected to reach speeds of 321km/h (200mph)—could damage New Deal-era murals in a nearby federal building. IndyCar officials state they have ‘tremendous respect’ for the surrounding history and structures, but commuters have already experienced significant congestion due to road closures related to event preparations. Flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport will also be paused for three hours on Sunday to accommodate flyovers.

Funding and Sponsorship Questions

The 147-lap race is projected to cost $35 million, making it one of the most expensive events on the IndyCar calendar. Bud Denker, president of Penske Corporation and chairman of the race, stated his company will cover the “vast majority” of expenses, with the city responsible for limited costs like street repairs. Several sponsors have existing government contracts, including Boeing, Verizon, WillScot, and Gulfstream, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest. Harbinger, a production company involved in previous Trump-hosted events, is coordinating logistics and fan experiences.

Political Undertones and Driver Reactions

President Trump is expected to attend the race, potentially taking a lap around the track in his motorcade on Sunday. This involvement has sparked concerns about potential politicization of the event. Pato O’Ward, IndyCar’s only full-time Mexican racer, noted the “ironic” nature of potentially winning given the president's stance on immigration and Mexico itself.

The Freedom 250 Grand Prix is set to proceed this weekend despite ongoing debate surrounding its planning, funding, and potential impact. Organizers anticipate a large turnout, with 100,000 general admission tickets already distributed.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.