Riley Gaines Leads Pre-Race Prayer Before NASCAR Cup Series Race in Texas

Riley Gaines, a former NCAA All-American swimmer and advocate for fairness in women’s sports, delivered an impassioned pre-race prayer on Sunday before the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.

Gaines, who has become a prominent voice in the sports world, led the invocation just moments before "The Boys" actor Jack Quaid gave the classic command to drivers to start their engines. It was an unusual but memorable crossover of sports and Hollywood.

Her prayer had all the hallmarks of a heartfelt message, touching on gratitude, safety, and even politics. She asked for protection for the drivers, staff, families, and fans, while also invoking blessings for former President Donald J. Trump and his cabinet. Unsurprisingly, this mention of Trump drew cheers from the crowd—a moment that felt as Texan as barbecue and cowboy hats.

"Dear heavenly Father, we gather today with gratitude for your mercy that we do not deserve and the sacrifice of your son who was sent to Earth to conquer death, hell and the grave. We thank you for this day and the unity that brings us together as we prepare for the start of this race," Gaines began, her voice resonating across the venue.

She continued, asking for wisdom, safety, and humility: "Heavenly Father, bless President Donald J. Trump, his cabinet and all of our leaders that they may seek your guidance in all decisions. If this is done, we may never be wrong and America will be made great again... God bless America, God bless the great state of Texas. In your name, we pray. Amen."

The prayer clearly struck a chord with attendees, blending faith, patriotism, and a touch of political spotlight—a cocktail that seems to resonate deeply with NASCAR audiences.

As for the race itself, Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace started on the front row, gearing up for what promised to be an intense competition. The Circuit of the Americas, a shorter course this year, added an extra layer of strategy for the drivers. Shane van Gisbergen, a road course specialist, started in the sixth position and was widely considered the favorite to win.

This event marked the third official race of the NASCAR season, following William Byron's back-to-back Daytona 500 wins and Christopher Bell's victory at last week's Ambetter Health 400 in Atlanta.

With its mix of high-octane action and heartfelt moments, this year’s EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix already feels like a standout in the 2025 NASCAR calendar.