Danica Patrick has never been one to shy away from the spotlight, and her latest appearance on FOX's pre-race show for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington, D.C., proved no exception. The 45-year-old racing legend, who has become a polarizing figure in recent years due to her outspoken political views, once again grabbed headlines with her comments about President Trump.
During the broadcast on Sunday, Patrick was visibly moved by the pre-race festivities, particularly the flyover of stealth aircraft. "I have goosebumps already from that flyover, seeing the stealth (aircraft) go by; always love seeing the stealth. But that's just icing on the cake," she said, adding that "Washington, D.C., is one of the most beautiful cities."
But it was her praise for the president that truly set social media abuzz. Patrick credited a collaborative effort involving FOX CEO Eric Shanks, Penske Corporation President Bud Denker, Secretary Duffy, and President Trump for making the race a reality. "Between the vision of Eric Shanks and Bud Denker, with the help of, of course, Secretary Duffy and President Donald Trump with that executive order, I think it really embodies what it is to live in America, land of the free, and anything is possible," she said.
She went on to highlight the swift execution of the event, calling it "the perfect embodiment and celebration of 250 years of this country." The race, which marks a historic moment for IndyCar, has drawn both praise and criticism, with IndyCar drivers rallying behind the event despite its political overtones.
Patrick's comments come on the heels of her recent defense against online haters leading up to the broadcast, a move that only intensified the spotlight on her. Her willingness to engage in political discourse has made her a lightning rod, with fans split between admiration for her candor and frustration over her alignment with the former president.
FOX, for its part, was thrilled to have Patrick on the air. The network announced a special 90-minute pre-race show featuring Patrick, four-time Indianapolis 500 champion Helio Castroneves, and Emmy Award-winning host Chris Myers, with contributions from renowned storyteller Tom Rinaldi. The broadcast honored all four branches of the U.S. military, adding a patriotic layer to the event.
This isn't the first time Patrick's political musings have sparked controversy. Her past endorsements and social media posts have drawn sharp reactions, including from other athletes. For instance, WNBA star Natasha Cloud's recent critical comments about Trump highlight the deep divide that such topics can create in the sports world.
Despite the backlash, Patrick remains unapologetic. Her appearance in D.C. was a testament to her belief in the event's significance, and she didn't hold back in expressing her pride. "That this race was gone from concept to reality as quickly as it was, and as well as it's been done, I think that is the perfect embodiment and celebration of 250 years of this country," she reiterated.
As the Freedom 250 continues to make history, Patrick's role in the broadcast ensures she remains a central figure in the conversation, whether fans love her or love to hate her. One thing is certain: her comments have once again put her at the intersection of sports and politics, a place she seems more than comfortable occupying.
