NASCAR fans incensed as Riley Gaines mentions Trump in pre-race prayer: 'Keep politics out of racing'

AUSTIN, TEXAS: Riley Gaines left people infuriated after she mentioned Donald Trump while saying a prayer before the beginning of the NASCAR Cup Series' EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas, on Sunday, March 2.

The former competitive swimmer began her pre-race invocation, "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," as reported by Fox News. 

Riley Gaines prays for Trump during pre-race invocation before NASCAR Cup Series race

"We thank you for this day and the unity that brings us together as we prepare for the start of this race. Lord, we ask for your protection for all drivers, staff, families, and fans alike. Grant each driver wisdom and safety at every turn," Riley Gaines added.

The 24-year-old, however, raised eyebrows when she mentioned, "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."

"Instill in us humility and grace so that others will see you in our daily lives. May today and every day lead us to the ultimate finish line – meeting you at the pearly gates," the conservative political activist added.

Gaines concluded her prayer by stating, "We surrender the activities of this day and of our lives into your mighty hands. God bless America, God bless the great state of Texas. In your name, we pray. Amen."

Internet slams NASCAR for 'putting politics above actual prayer' after Riley Gaines leads invocation

Though admirers of the MAGA spearhead loved Riley Gaines' prayer, many NASCAR fans felt otherwise. 

One wrote, "I think it’s time we take prayer out of NASCAR," while another said, "She had to read a prayer?? Prayers are born from the spirit, not a cowboy hat. MAGA and their false religion." 

"Prays ‘We thank you for this day and the *unity* that brings us together…’ While regularly using her platform to divide," a person fumed, while someone else added, "Shame that @NASCAR is putting politics above actual prayer." 

"Keep f’ing politics out of racing," an individual demanded. Another person wrote, "Way to bring politics into a sporting event. That sucked."

"She should pray for herself and then all of us.  Pray for trump WHY?? he's destroying our country, democracy, safety.  Is she for real?  Maybe she should swim faster and further away from here," one more expressed.

"So this was like super cringe. I’d really appreciate this kind of s**t never happening again," another comment read. A netizen stated, "A bit much, Riley! Can’t we just let sports be sports — and leave the damn politics OUT OF IT!!"

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