IndyCar removed a shirt from its online store on Wednesday after the message on it sparked immediate backlash. The shirt, which featured the phrases "One Nation" and "One Race," was released to promote an upcoming competition in Washington, D.C., celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. It also included an image of an IndyCar driver seated on the Lincoln Memorial.
After the shirt was posted online, many people described it as "racist," "insensitive," and "inflammatory." Critics questioned how such a message could be approved during a time of rising white nationalism in the United States. The $50 shirt was available on IndyCar's website before being removed.
IndyCar's Response
IndyCar issued a brief statement explaining the decision. "A shirt was removed from INDYCAR’s online store following feedback from customers," the company said. "We understand that some individuals found its phrasing concerning and therefore have remedied the situation." No further details were provided.
Context of the Event
The shirt was created for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, an IndyCar race scheduled for August in Washington, D.C. The event will see cars racing down Pennsylvania Avenue and looping around the National Mall as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. However, security concerns have been raised by federal law enforcement officials following a recent assassination attempt at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Officials are worried about the number of large outdoor public events planned by President Donald Trump this year.
President Trump also boasted about plans to host a UFC fight in front of the White House on his 80th birthday in June.
Sara Boboltz contributed to this story.
