Here’s a news-style article based on your headline:
—
# **Riley Gaines’ Prayer for Donald Trump at NASCAR Cup Series Sparks Controversy**
**Austin, TX – March 9, 2025** – Former NCAA swimmer and outspoken activist Riley Gaines found herself at the center of political controversy after offering a prayer for former President Donald Trump during the pre-race invocation at the NASCAR Cup Series event at Circuit of the Americas (COTA). While her words received applause from many in attendance, they also sparked criticism from some liberal circles, reigniting debates about politics, religion, and sports.
## **A Prayer That Stirred Reactions**
During the pre-race invocation, a long-standing tradition at NASCAR events, Gaines took the microphone to lead a prayer. In her message, she prayed for the safety of the drivers, thanked God for the freedoms Americans enjoy, and included a specific mention of Trump.
*”Lord, we ask for your protection over these incredible drivers today. We thank you for the blessing of competition, for our great country, and for the freedom to gather here. We also lift up President Donald Trump, praying for his strength, wisdom, and protection as he continues to serve our nation.”*
The mention of Trump was met with cheers and applause from many NASCAR fans, a demographic known for its strong conservative leanings. However, it also led to immediate backlash from some political commentators and social media users, who argued that it was an unnecessary political statement in a sporting event.
## **Liberal Critics Respond**
Following the invocation, critics took to social media to express their frustration. Some argued that the prayer turned a sporting event into a political platform, while others questioned whether a similar invocation for a Democratic leader would have been as well-received.
**Progressive activist Jon Cooper tweeted:**
*”Riley Gaines turning a NASCAR prayer into a political rally for Trump is exactly why sports should stay out of politics. Imagine the outrage if she had prayed for Joe Biden.”*
Another user wrote:
*”This is why people are tired of mixing politics and sports. Just pray for the drivers and move on!”*
Others, however, defended Gaines’ right to free speech and pointed out that praying for a political leader, regardless of party, should not be considered controversial.
## **NASCAR’s Stance on Politics in the Sport**
NASCAR has long been associated with conservative values, with many of its fans and drivers openly supporting Republican leaders. Trump himself has attended past NASCAR events, including the 2020 Daytona 500, where he served as the grand marshal.
The organization has generally tried to maintain a neutral stance on political matters, though past instances—such as Trump’s campaign ads featuring NASCAR footage and drivers’ political endorsements—have occasionally blurred those lines.
In response to the controversy, a NASCAR spokesperson issued a brief statement:
*”NASCAR respects the diverse perspectives of its fans, competitors, and guests. The pre-race invocation is a time-honored tradition that reflects the values of our community.”*
## **Riley Gaines Defends Her Prayer**
Gaines, who has been an outspoken advocate for conservative values and women’s sports rights, responded to the backlash with a firm stance.
*”I will never apologize for praying or for standing up for what I believe in. If people are offended by a prayer for someone’s well-being, that says more about them than it does about me,”* she posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Her supporters rallied behind her, praising her for unapologetically expressing her faith and values.
## **Broader Debate: Faith, Politics, and Sports**
The incident at COTA highlights the ongoing debate about the role of religion and politics in sports. While some believe athletes and public figures should refrain from political statements at sporting events, others argue that they have every right to express their beliefs—just as athletes who kneel for the national anthem or advocate for social justice do.
As the 2024 presidential election cycle continues to stir strong emotions, moments like this are likely to remain at the center of public discourse.
For now, NASCAR fans will turn their attention back to the track, but the controversy surrounding Riley Gaines’ prayer serves as another reminder of the deep political divides in America today.
—
Would you like any modifications or additional details?
