WWE icon Dwayne Johnson, widely known as ‘The Rock,’ is eagerly gearing up to deliver the command for the Daytona 500 on Sunday, February 18. The Hollywood sensation shared his enthusiasm on social media ahead of the Great American Race, expressing his honor at being named the Grand Marshal for the NASCAR Cup Series season opener by Daytona International Speedway President, Frank Kelleher.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Johnson praised the NASCAR drivers as the ‘Kings of the roads’ and conveyed his immense respect for the sport. In a lively post, he exclaimed, “Man I’m pumped to be the Grand Marshal for THIS SUNDAY’s ELECTRIFYING @DAYTONA 500. The ENERGY, the MANA, with the KINGS of the road!! I’ve always had massive respect for the drivers and this sport— can’t wait!! Truly honored to give the command, ‘Drivers start your engines’ ~ people’s champ.”
Reflecting on a previous NASCAR experience, Johnson humorously recounted his attempt to fit into a stock car, adding, “P.S – last time I tried to squeeze my big 270lb ass into a NASCAR car, I got stuck… so LFG.”
Following the thrilling Duel races on Thursday night, the Daytona 500 starting grid is now set, with Joey Logano and Michael McDowell leading the field. The Daytona 500 is scheduled for Sunday at 2:30 PM ET, and fans can catch Dwayne Johnson’s commanding performance live on Fox, Motor Racing Network, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
As the ‘Superbowl of NASCAR,’ the Daytona 500 attracts a star-studded lineup of celebrities from various fields. Trackhouse Racing co-owner Pitbull, a renowned rapper, is set to headline the pre-race concert, with plans for a special EP, Trackhouse: Daytona 500, after the event. The United Air Force Thunderbirds will make their 14th consecutive appearance for a flyover at Daytona International Speedway, entertaining a sold-out audience.
US Air Force officer and newly crowned Miss America, Madison Marsh, will take on the role of honorary pace car driver, leading the field to the green flag. Additionally, Grammy Award-winning artist DJ Khaled will serve as the honorary starter, waving the green flag to kick off the 500-mile race, enhancing the star power surrounding the Daytona 500 weekend.