World Cup energy carries into Freedom 250 Grand Prix as global fans celebrate America's historic birthday

Indy Car fan from England describes how much he loves and appreciates America prior to Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington DC, calling it a "beautiful country" full of "beautiful people."

America has been heavily criticized from the political left, whether from citizens or politicians. Our nation has also received relentless condemnation from foreign citizens around the world, especially over the last decade. There seemed to be a shift during the World Cup, though. Fans from all over the world had the ability to experience the beauty of the United States of America through our unique culture, landscape, patriotism, hospitality and more. It was the best PR campaign I've ever seen for our nation. Now, with the Freedom 250 Grand Prix IndyCar race in Washington, D.C., fans from all over the world are flocking to our nation's capital and expressing that same love and respect we heard during the World Cup.

The first practice session of the Freedom 250 Grand Prix weekend got undeway on a damp track around the National Mall. (Photo by Mike Kropf/Getty Images)

While walking through the National Mall, with the United States Capitol building in the background peeking over the top of the grandstand, I spoke with multiple fans who had nothing but great things to say about America and the work Trump and his administration put in to make this race a reality. They urged their nations to take notes on how well America celebrates its history and brings people together through sports.

A fan who lives "right by the track" in Silverstone, England, told me, "D.C. is one of my favorite cities. So much history," and went as far as saying, "I love America. It’s a beautiful country and beautiful people."

INDYCAR STAR ALEX PALOU REFLECTS ON