IndyCar has swiftly removed a controversial T-shirt from its online store after facing widespread criticism for what many called a racist and insensitive design. The shirt, created for the upcoming Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington, D.C., featured an image of an IndyCar driver seated on the Lincoln Memorial, accompanied by the phrase 'One nation, one race.'
Backlash on Social Media
The design quickly sparked outrage online, with users questioning how such a message was approved. One user on X posted, 'IndyCar selling a 'One Nation, One Race' t-shirt for the Freedom 250 is incredibly insensitive and inflammatory. This is something that should never have been approved.' Another commenter wrote, 'As a dedicated fan of the sport, I would like to see IndyCar and Roger Penske issue an apology for its racist AI shirt design.'
IndyCar's Response
Within hours of the image circulating on social media, the shirt was removed from the online store. IndyCar issued a statement acknowledging the backlash: 'A shirt was removed from INDYCAR’s online store following feedback from customers. We understand that some individuals found its phrasing concerning and therefore have remedied the situation.'
About the Freedom 250 Race
The Freedom 250 is scheduled for August 22-23 on the streets of Washington, D.C., as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations. The track will take high-speed cars down Pennsylvania Avenue and around the National Mall. The event is one of several major festivities in the capital, including a UFC event hosted by President Donald Trump on the White House lawn on June 14.
IndyCar's quick action to remove the shirt highlights the sensitivity required when marketing events tied to national pride and historical symbols.
