WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Donald Trump made an appearance at the Daytona 500 on Sunday, marking his second attendance as President. He described this opening race of the NASCAR season as an event that fosters unity, embodying a spirit that he believes will “ignite America’s Golden Age” under his leadership.

In a presidential message shared during his flight to Daytona Beach, Trump emphasized that the Daytona 500 unites individuals from diverse backgrounds through a “collective enthusiasm for speed, adrenaline, and the excitement of racing.”

“From the thrilling roar of engines on the speedway to the resonant notes of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ filling the stands, the Daytona 500 serves as a timeless homage to the speed, resilience, and unwavering spirit that define our great nation,” Trump stated. “This spirit is what will propel America’s Golden Age forward, and by harnessing it, we can truly own the future.”

In his inaugural address on January 20, Trump proclaimed, “the golden age of America begins right now.”

Before landing, Air Force One performed a flyby over the Daytona International Speedway. Trump was accompanied by several guests, including his son Eric, wife Melania, grandson Luke, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, along with his wife Kathryn. Additionally, several congressional members joined him on the trip.

His motorcade arrived at the speedway by entering a segment of the track. Trump later led the drivers on two ceremonial laps before he spoke on the radio, encouraging them to have fun and stay safe.

“This is your favorite president. I’m a big fan of you all. I don’t know how you do this, but I want you to be safe,” Trump remarked. “You are talented and represent great American values. Enjoy the day, have fun, and I’ll catch up with you later.”

Trump had previously attended the Daytona 500 in 2020 while campaigning for a second term, where he was honored as the grand marshal and gave the command for drivers to start their engines. Air Force One also conducted a flyover during that event, with his limousine taking to the speedway.

This year’s race commenced before a sold-out audience but was interrupted after just eight laps due to heavy rain, causing an anticipated delay. Notably, the NASCAR crowd is predominantly traditional in their views, with many attendees wearing red “MAGA” caps in support of Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan. Moreover, Trump watched the race from a suite while sporting a MAGA cap himself.

Known as a sports enthusiast, Trump enjoys golf and regularly attends college football and UFC events. Recently, he made headlines as the first sitting president to attend the Super Bowl.