WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Donald Trump is set to attend the Daytona 500 on Sunday, marking his second appearance at this prestigious NASCAR event as a former president. His presence at the race is an effort to bolster his image as a sports enthusiast, following his attendance in 2020 while campaigning for a second term.

During his previous visit to the Daytona International Speedway, Trump was honored as the grand marshal of the race, where he delivered the command for drivers to start their engines. This occasion was further celebrated with an Air Force One flyover, adding to the excitement as he made his entrance in a presidential limousine.

Just last weekend, Trump made history as the first sitting president to attend the Super Bowl, showcasing his ongoing interest in significant sporting events. Furthermore, he is known to attend college football games, UFC fights, and is a passionate golfer, further cementing his identity as a sports fan.

In a 2020 interview with Fox News, when asked about what he enjoyed most about NASCAR, Trump expressed admiration for the bravery and courage of the drivers vying for “pure American glory.” He characterized the Daytona 500 as a "legendary display of roaring engines, soaring spirits, and the American skill, speed, and power” that fans have long cherished. Trump emphasized that NASCAR fans hold dear the values of God, family, and country, underscoring the sport's cultural importance.

NASCAR’s fanbase is predominantly conservative, making Trump’s attendance at the Daytona 500 particularly significant in terms of political outreach. In 2018, he recognized NASCAR Cup Series champion Martin Truex Jr. at the White House, further developing his connection to the sport. More recently, in May, Trump was present at the Coca-Cola 600 at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina, a critical swing state, while campaigning for reelection.

Chase Elliott, a prominent NASCAR driver, remarked that having a president attend the Daytona 500, one of the biggest days in the NASCAR calendar, is a special event. He pointed out that Trump’s presence undoubtedly brings a different perspective and more attention to the race, highlighting the unique significance of the occasion.

As the Daytona 500 approaches, anticipation builds not only for the race itself but also for the engaging spectacle of Trump’s involvement, further intertwining the worlds of politics and sports in America.