“The Daytona 500 is a legendary display of roaring engines, soaring spirits, and the American skill, speed, and power.” These were the words of President Donald Trump when he attended the iconic NASCAR event in 2020. That year, Trump served as the grand marshal, delivering the famous “start your engines” command before taking a lap around the track in his armored limousine. Fast forward to 2025, the NASCAR world is buzzing with rumors of Trump’s potential return to the iconic race.

Although neither NASCAR nor the White House has officially confirmed his attendance, reports suggest that security preparations are underway. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented temporary flight restrictions over Daytona Beach, and Marine One has been seen at the local airport. While Trump’s return could blaze NASCAR’s TV ratings, fans and insiders are now bracing for another wave of logistical hurdles.

NASCAR insiders reveal enhanced security preps at Daytona 500

Donald Trump’s expected presence at Daytona International Speedway has already begun affecting race preparations. Journalists and NASCAR insiders are among the first to feel the impact of tightened security. Well-known NASCAR reporters Bob Pockrass and Jeff Gluck have voiced their frustrations. They revealed how increased security measures ruined their broadcasting plans.

“Bummer news: A tweetup with @bobpockrass is not looking possible for Daytona this year. We hear enhanced security for the president’s visit on Sunday means going outside the track and back will be difficult for us/take way too long,” Gluck wrote on X. Pockrass also confirmed the difficulties, adding, “Sorry about this but we were advised that trying to get into the infield could be difficult at times.”

These statements highlight that media personnel and fans might face a lot of struggles on Sunday. Moving in and out of key areas will take longer, potentially affecting their schedule. Notably, this is not a new challenge. In 2020, when Trump last attended the race, fans faced long security lines, thorough bag checks, and heavy traffic congestion. The heightened safety measures could led to significant delays, making it difficult for attendees to navigate the speedway smoothly.

Despite these potential struggles, Trump’s presence at the Daytona 500 remains a major draw. His 2020 visit set a precedent as NASCAR registered almost 1/4th surge in viewership. Notably, this could be Donald Trump’s third visit to the Daytona 500. He first attended the Great American Race in 2001 from grandstands. 19-Years-Later he returned as president and is now likely to repeat the same. It’s worth noting that Trump is the third US president to attend an event at the iconic track.

Notably, Ronald Reagan had attended the Firecracker 400 at the speedway in 1984. Reagan was a few minutes late to the event, and he had to give the iconic ‘Gentlemen, start your engines’ command through a live feed. Apart from him, George W. Bush attended the event in 2004. He landed way before the event and gave commands before joining the crowd in the grandstands. However, Trump was the first US president who paced the race in his iconic limousine.

Whether 2025 will bring the same level of excitement remains to be seen, but the sport is preparing for another historic moment. With all eyes on Trump’s attendance, NASCAR’s biggest names have begun to share their thoughts on the matter.

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NASCAR drivers react to Trump’s possible attendance!

Regardless of their political views for many NASCAR drivers, Donald Trump’s return to Daytona is a significant moment. The 2020 Cup Series champion Chase Elliott sees it as a unique opportunity for the sport to gain more exposure. “I think having a sitting president come and be a part of one of our biggest days of the year—certainly what I would call our biggest event of the year—I think is special. It certainly brings a lot of eyes and a different perspective to what we do down here for this race,” Elliott said during NASCAR Media Day.

Notably, Elliott has a very long history with Donald Trump. In 2016, he had joined Trump’s presidential campaign. Along with fellow NASCAR drivers, Elliott campaigned for Trump in Georgia. However, unlike his past support, Elliott will be eyeing for something more important. In 2020, when Elliott won the championship, unlike others, he was not allowed to celebrate it in the White House because of COVID-19 protocols. The Hendrick Motorsports driver would like to complete this dream by lifting he Bill France Cup in 2025.

Apart from veteran driver Kyle Busch is also excited for Trump’s return. He also echoed Elliott’s sentiments by noting that any high-profile guest is good for NASCAR. “I mean, any time you get big-name people who come to the 500, it’s a big deal. I remember watching when Reagan was here, and even celebrities like The Rock last year. It shines a brighter light on just how great of an event this is,” Busch said.

However, not all drivers are excited about Trump’s presence. 23XI Racing driver Bubba Wallace dismissed the significance of Trump’s visit, saying, “We’re here to race. Not for the show.” Notably, Wallace’s history with Trump has been tense. In 2020, when the FBI ruled that the noose found in Wallace’s garage was not intended for a hate crime, Trump accused him of staging a “hoax.” He even demanded an apology from the Alabama native.

Regardless of differing opinions, Trump’s presence will undeniably bring national attention to the Daytona 500. Whether it helps or complicates the event, Sunday’s race will be one of the most talked-about in recent history. Fans, teams, and officials will have to navigate a weekend filled with both anticipation and challenges as NASCAR kicks off its 2025 season.