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Danica Patrick and NASCAR legend Richard Petty make waves at Trump’s second inauguration

Harry Bright by Harry Bright
January 22, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
Danica Patrick and NASCAR legend Richard Petty make waves at Trump’s second inauguration

Danica Patrick, a former NASCAR driver turned entrepreneur, speaks during the 5th Annual Women's Leadership Breakfast Thursday, Nov. 4, 2021. Danica Patrick028

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Retired NASCAR driver Danica Patrick and motorsports legend Richard Petty took center stage at Donald Trump’s second inauguration party in Washington, D.C. Patrick, known for her outspoken nature and controversial opinions, made her support for the 47th president abundantly clear with a bold fashion statement. Meanwhile, Richard Petty added a touch of NASCAR history to the event by showcasing one of his iconic racecars.

Danica Patrick’s evolving public persona

Since retiring from professional racing in 2018, Patrick has remained in the public eye as a broadcaster and NASCAR ambassador. Recently, her political affiliations have gained attention, particularly her vocal support for Donald Trump.

Patrick attended the inauguration festivities donning a black leather jacket emblazoned with the American flag and “USA” down the arms—a nod to her racing roots. On Instagram, she proudly displayed the patriotic outfit, further solidifying her alignment with the event’s theme.

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This isn’t Patrick’s first foray into political circles. In late 2024, she moderated a Q&A session for Senator JD Vance during Trump’s campaign, hinting at a growing role in the political sphere. Could Patrick be eyeing a new chapter beyond sports broadcasting?

Richard Petty: NASCAR’s enduring connection to American culture

No NASCAR name is more synonymous with Americana than Richard Petty’s. The seven-time champion, affectionately known as “The King,” brought his legacy to the inauguration with his iconic 1970 Plymouth Superbird, a car synonymous with the golden age of NASCAR.

Petty’s involvement highlights the sport’s deep ties to American culture, particularly in its birthplace of North Carolina. Speaking about the honor, Petty quipped:

“I said, ‘If you let Trump ride in it, I’ll send it up there!’ But anyhow, they’re going to send one of the deals. One of my daughters is going with the car, so I thought it was a pretty big deal to be invited just to be in the parade.”

The Superbird, on loan from Petty’s museum, was featured prominently during the inauguration parade, serving as a reminder of NASCAR’s rich history and its connection to American pride.

Sports and Trump: A growing legacy

The guest list for Trump’s inauguration included an array of sports figures, from boxing’s Jake and Logan Paul to UFC legends Conor McGregor and Dana White. Even FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended, reflecting the United States’ upcoming role as host of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics.

Trump’s long-standing ties to sports, particularly UFC, have been well-documented, but his connection to NASCAR continues to grow. His embrace of figures like Patrick and Petty underscores his appreciation for the sport’s cultural significance.

NASCAR’s relationship with U.S. Presidents

NASCAR has a storied history with American presidents. From Ronald Reagan attending a race at Daytona in 1984 to Trump serving as the Grand Marshal for the 2020 Daytona 500, the sport’s relationship with the Oval Office has been robust. This enduring connection highlights NASCAR’s place as a symbol of American values and tradition.

What’s next for Danica Patrick?

With her outspoken personality and increasing political involvement, Patrick’s future could hold surprises beyond the racetrack and commentary booth. Whether she chooses to pursue a more formal role in the political arena or continue as a cultural ambassador for motorsports, one thing is certain: Patrick will remain a headline-grabber.

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