Donald Trump has said that he is “so proud” of Nascar after reports suggested that the American motorsport will sack any individual who protests against the national anthem in the wake of the widespread NFL ‘Take a Knee’ gestures.

President Trump is facing a large backlash over comments he made last week that claimed American football players should be fired if they kneel down during the American national anthem, a gesture that was started by ex-NFL quarterback Colin Kaeperknick to protest against police brutality and racial inequality that has been adopted by a number of fellow players.

Three teams – the Tennessee Titans, Seattle Seahawks and Pittsburgh Steelers – elected to remain in the stadium tunnel ahead of their matches on Sunday in a further protest against Trump’s recent comments, but many team owners in Nascar suggesting that they will fire drivers who refuse to respect the national anthem, with Trump supporting them.

“So proud of NASCAR and its supporters and fans,” tweeted Mr Trump. “They won't put up with disrespecting our Country or our Flag - they said it loud and clear!”

“Many people booed the players who kneeled yesterday (which was a small percentage of total). These are fans who demand respect for our Flag!

“The issue of kneeling has nothing to do with race. It is about respect for our Country, Flag and National Anthem. NFL must respect this!”