Kyle Kirkwood hangs on to win Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington

Kyle Kirkwood crossed the finish line in first place to win the Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington, D.C., on Sunday afternoon.

Kirkwood, one of a few American drivers in the race, took the lead from Álex Palou early in the race and didn’t look back.

He built up a hefty lead on his fellow drivers at one point.

A few late cautions closed the gap but Kirkwood was able to hold off Christian Lundgaard in the end.

Lundgaard tried to narrow the gap as best as he could.

He was within a second of Kirkwood before falling off the pace toward the end.

Palou, who came into the race leading the season standings, was hit with a drive-through penalty.

The issue sent him to the back of the field and he was never able to get back to within striking distance.

It was Kirkwood’s second win of the season.

The Freedom 250 Grand Prix was held in D.C. to mark the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.

The drivers zoomed around the National Mall with the U.S.

Capitol in the background.

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania rode in the Beast as part of an honorary lap ahead of the race.

The president also waved the green flag to start it.