Trump at Daytona 500 in Florida: List of family members who did (and didn't) attend
A week after President Donald Trump made history on Super Bowl Sunday with his appearance at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans − the president made another trip a week later to a premiere NASCAR event − the Daytona 500 in Daytona Beach, Florida.
It's one of many visits to the Great American Race from the commander-in-chief and his second as president of the U.S. In 2020, Trump was the grand marshal for the 62nd annual Daytona 500, and First Lady Melania Trump accompanied him.
Five years later, Donald Trump arrived at the 67th annual Daytona 500 without his wife. Melania Trump sent good wishes, however, (see below).
On Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, Donald Trump was spotted next to his daughter, Ivanka Trump, at Super Bowl LIX. The father-daughter duo were seen clapping as they looked down at the field with her youngest son Theodore "Theo" Kushner. Donald Trump Jr., his girlfriend Bettina Anderson, and three of his five children with ex-wife Vanessa Trump also attended. Eric and Lara Trump were at the Super Bowl − without their two children.
On Sunday, Feb. 16, Donald Trump arrived at the Daytona Beach International Airport, which is next door to Daytona International Speedway, for the Great American Race.
Which members of the Trump family and inner circle celebrated with him at the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida? Here's what we know.
Donald Trump arrived at the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida, ahead of the green flag. With him was his granddaughter, Carolina Trump, daughter of his son Eric Trump and his wife, Lara Trump.
The White House released a statement from Donald Trump for the 2025 Daytona 500: "Today, I look forward to joining tens of thousands of American Patriots in Daytona Beach, Florida, for the 'Great American Race' — the legendary Daytona 500 — and the official start to the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series.
"This iconic race showcases the fastest, most fearless drivers in motorsports, who represent our Nation's love of tradition, competition, and automotive innovation. The Daytona 500 brings together people from all walks of life — from lifelong racing fans to first-time spectators — they all join in celebrating a shared passion for speed, adrenaline, and the thrill of the race. From the roar of the engines on the track to the echo of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' soaring through the stands, the Daytona 500 is a timeless tribute to the speed, strength, and unyielding spirit that make America great. That spirit is what will fuel America's Golden Age, and if we harness it, the future is truly ours.
"Since the very beginning, NASCAR has carried forth a proud tradition of honoring our heroic Service members for their unwavering courage. While fans from around the world gather today at Daytona International Speedway, we extend our unending gratitude to the selfless men and women in uniform who risk their lives to keep us safe. When the engines start or the checkered flag waves, and all 500 thrilling miles in between, our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and Guardians stand ready to defend cherished traditions like this—and for that, we are truly thankful.
"Melania and I send our best wishes for a safe and successful race. May God bless our Armed Forces, and may He continue to bless the United States of America."
Eric Trump, son of Donald Trump and the late Ivana Trump
Lara Trump, wife of Eric Trump, a new Fox News host and former chair of the Republican National Convention
Luke Trump, son of Eric and Lara Trump
Carolina Trump, daughter of Donald Trump's son Eric Trump and his wife Lara Trump
First Lady Melania Trump
Donald Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr.
Donald Trump's eldest daughter, Ivanka Trump
Tiffany Trump, only child of Donald Trump and his second ex-wife, former model Marla Maples
Viktor Knavs, father of Melania Trump and grandfather of Donald and Melania's only child, Barron Trump
Barron Trump
Sangalang is a lead digital producer for USA TODAY Network. Follow her on Twitter or Instagram at @byjensangalang. Support local journalism. Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Trump at Daytona 500 in Florida: Did Melania, Ivanka, Barron attend?
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