BREAKING: American IndyCar driver Kyle Kirkwood wins Freedom 250 GP, shares podium with a bald eagle

American IndyCar driver Kyle Kirkwood celebrated his victory in the Freedom 250 Grand Prix alongside a bald eagle while on the podium.

Kirkwood took part in the post-race celebration where a bald eagle was brought onto the podium as part of the festivities. The bird's appearance added to the patriotic tone of the race designed to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.

Freedom250 was a historic moment for IndyCar that saw drivers race through the streets of Washington, DC. The circuit was 1.66 miles in length and passed a number of historic landmarks, including the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, the National Archives, and the National Gallery of Art. Drivers also drove down 3rd Street, with the United States Capitol in the distance serving as a backdrop.

Several government officials were present to participate in the race ceremonies. DC Mayor Muriel Bowser served as the grand marshal for the race, ushering drivers to their cars. At the start of the race, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum delivered the line "Gentlemen, start your engines." War Secretary Pete Hegseth and Attorney General Todd Blanche were also in attendance.

But it was President Donald Trump, alongside First Lady Melania, who waved the green flag to start the race.

The action-packed race was filled with head-turning moments. Driver Scott McLaughlin crashed into the wall while trying to pass Kirkwood for the lead. Pole position sitter Alex Palou, who was considered a favorite to win the race, suffered a drive-through penalty and pit stop error that put him a lap behind.

In the end, it was Florida native Kirkwood who crossed the finish line first. His victory set a new IndyCar record for the most laps led on a street course. 

Following the race, Kirkwood said that "you can't even put it into words" what it felt like to win a race on the streets of DC.

“It felt good to dominate out there I’m not going to lie," Kirkwood said. He also expressed his excitement for the president's attendance at the race.

"What an incredible place to do it," he added.

The Freedom 250 GP was met with overall acclaim within the motorsports community. Former racing driver Danica Patrick called the race weekend "spectacular," adding that “Everybody seemed thrilled and I have a feeling there’s going to be a lot of people coming back to Washington, DC after this visit.”