Trump takes lap at Daytona 500 in armoured limo

He also took a parade lap around the 2 1/2-mile speedway in his armoured presidential limo called 'The Beast', leading the 40-car field before the green flag. The president's visit was widely welcomed by NASCAR fans.

Daytona Beach: US President Donald Trump became just the second sitting president to attend the Daytona 500 on Sunday.

Trump served as grand marshal for the race and gave the command for drivers to start their engines.

He also took a parade lap around the 2 1/2-mile speedway in his armoured presidential limo called 'The Beast', leading the 40-car field before the green flag.

The presidential motorcade remained on the apron in the corners instead of taking to the high-banked turns.

The president's visit was widely welcomed by NASCAR fans.

Trump 2020 flags flooded the infield, and some fans wore them as capes in the garage area.

Trump's presence energised fans and caused huge headaches because of logistical issues at entrance points.