START YOUR ENGINES: NASCAR star Chase Elliott says President Trump’s attendance at the Daytona 500 brings attention and a new perspective to the sport. Asked about a potential call from the 47th president, he said, “That sounds like we would have won the race, so that sounds like a good thing.”

February 16, 2025 JOSEPH

President Donald Trump’s anticipated attendance at the 2025 Daytona 500 has garnered varied reactions from the NASCAR community. Notably, driver Chase Elliott expressed enthusiasm about the President’s presence at the event. In a recent interview, Elliott remarked, “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 season — is pretty cool.” citeturn0search10

Elliott emphasized the significance of the President’s involvement, suggesting it brings heightened attention and a fresh perspective to the sport. He noted that such high-profile attendance underscores the event’s importance and can potentially attract new fans to NASCAR.

When asked about the possibility of receiving a congratulatory call from President Trump in the event of a victory, Elliott responded with optimism. He stated, “That sounds like we would have won the race, so that sounds like a good thing.” This lighthearted comment reflects Elliott’s focus on success and the honor he associates with recognition from the nation’s leader.

In contrast, fellow NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace has taken a more neutral stance regarding the President’s attendance. Wallace, who has previously had public disagreements with Trump, emphasized his focus on the race itself rather than the political implications of the President’s presence. He stated that he remains unfazed by Trump’s attendance and is concentrating on his performance on the track. citeturn0news24

President Trump’s engagement with NASCAR is not unprecedented. He previously attended the Daytona 500 in 2020, where he served as the grand marshal and delivered the iconic command for drivers to start their engines. His return to the event in 2025 signifies a continued interest in the sport and its cultural significance. citeturn0search14

The President’s presence at such a high-profile event inevitably brings additional media coverage and public interest. For drivers like Chase Elliott, this attention is viewed positively, as it shines a spotlight on NASCAR and its athletes. Elliott’s welcoming remarks suggest an appreciation for the broader exposure and the potential growth it could bring to the sport.

In summary, while reactions among drivers vary, Chase Elliott perceives President Trump’s attendance at the Daytona 500 as a beneficial development for NASCAR. He believes it enhances the event’s prestige and could introduce the sport to a wider audience. Elliott’s focus remains on achieving success on the track, with the prospect of presidential recognition serving as an additional motivator.