Fans soak in the concert experience from Luke Combs during the 2022 Daytona 500 pre-race festivities

Daytona 500 celebrities through the years

By Staff report | Published: February 13, 2023 75

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Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images

The Daytona 500 has a long history of attracting stars from outside the world of motorsports, inviting them in for a taste of the pageantry and the festivities around the prestigious stock-car race. This year marks the 65th edition of the 500-miler, which also means six and a half decades' worth of dignitaries who have been special guests at Daytona International Speedway.

With NASCAR's 75th anniversary season kicking off, take a look back through the celebrities who have taken in the sights and scenes from the "Great American Race."

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 15: (L-R) Actor Tom Cruise poses with team owner Rick Hendrick next to the car used in the film

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Actor Tom Cruise, known in NASCAR circles for his leading role in "Days of Thunder," arrived at Daytona with team owner Rick Hendrick in 2009. Cruise was reunited with the No. 46 Chevrolet that his character, Cole Trickle, drove in the 1990 blockbuster.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Actress Charlize Theron poses with the green flag prior to the start of the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

Sean Gardner | Getty Images

Academy Award-winning actress Charlize Theron poses with the green flag before the Daytona 500 in 2018. Theron served as the honorary starter for the 60th running of the 500-mile event.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 21: Cuba Gooding Jr is seen prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 21, 2016 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

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Fellow Oscar winner Cuba Gooding Jr. soaks in the sights from the trioval grass during pre-race in 2016.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 22: Actor Vince Vaughn is seen in the driver meeting prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 57th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 22, 2015 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images

Actor Vince Vaughn made the trip to Daytona International Speedway in 2015. He was recognized in the pre-race drivers' meeting along with other celebs.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 26: Actor Owen Wilson, grand marshal for the 59th Annual DAYTONA 500, reacts prior to the 59th Annual DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 26, 2017 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

Sean Gardner | Getty Images

Two years later, fellow "Wedding Crashers" star Owen Wilson arrived in Daytona for grand marshal duties in 2017.

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DAYTONA, FL - FEBRUARY 16: John Travolta with his wife Kelly Preston during the NASCAR Winston Cup Daytona 500 on February 16, 2003 at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona, Florida. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images).

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John Travolta offered a thumbs-up as he and his wife, Kelly Preston, attended the Daytona 500 in 2003, the last year of the Winston Cup era.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 23: Grand Marshal, actor Chris Evans is introduced during pre-race ceremonies for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 23, 2014 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chris Trotman/NASCAR via Getty Images)

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Actor Chris Evans performed grand marshal duties for the Daytona 500 in 2014.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 20: (L-R) Jeff Gordon, driver of the #24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet, greets actors Ashton Kutcher and Matthew McConaughey prior to the NASCAR Nextel Cup Daytona 500 on February 20, 2005 at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona, Florida. (Photo By Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Jamie Squire | Getty Images

Jeff Gordon offers a welcome to actors Ashton Kutcher and Matthew McConaughey before the 2005 running of the Daytona 500. McConaughey was the race's grand marshal, and Kutcher was the honorary starter.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL — February 1972: Actor James Garner (R) was Grand Marshall of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. Garner, who did a bit of racing himself, entered cars at Daytona for the 24 Hours of Daytona on occasion. He also starred in the critically acclaimed movie “Grand Prix” in 1966. Just behind Garner is 1963 Daytona 500 winner DeWayne “Tiny” Lund. (Photo by ISC Images & Archives via Getty Images)

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Actor James Garner presided as grand marshal of the Daytona 500 in 1972, joined by driver Tiny Lund during the pre-race festivities. Garner was active as a team owner in sports-car racing and starred in the movie “Grand Prix” in 1966.

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DAYTONA, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Actor Nicolas Cage speaks during a press conference before the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2007 in Daytona, Florida. (Photo by Michael Heiman/Getty Images)

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Actor Nicolas Cage holds court during a press conference before the Daytona 500 in 2007.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 19: Actor James Caan watches the race from Jamie McMurray's pit box during the Daytona 500 on February 19, 2006 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Ralph Notaro/Getty Images)

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Actor James Caan takes in the 2006 running of the Daytona 500 from the Roush Racing pit box for Jamie McMurray.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 15: Actors Ben Affleck and Whoopi Goldberg prior to the Daytona 500 on February 15, 2004 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

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Ben Affleck and Whoopi Goldberg applaud during the pre-race ceremonies ahead of the 2004 edition of the "Great American Race."

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 21: Winky Wright poses with Gerard Butler during the driver's meeting prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 21, 2016 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

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Boxing star Winky Wright gets a selfie with actor Gerard Butler during the pre-race driver's meeting for the 2016 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 19 : Actor Josh Duhamel looks on during the Daytona 500 on February 19, 2006 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Ralph Notaro/Getty Images)

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Actor Josh Duhamel waits just outside Victory Lane at Daytona International Speedway for the 2006 season opener.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 26: Model Kate Upton (L) and actress Jane Lynch (R) pose prior to the start of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 26, 2012 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

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Model Kate Upton, left, and actress Jane Lynch served as co-grand marshals for the 2012 Daytona 500. The two were co-stars in a Three Stooges movie released that year.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 23: Honorary starter, actor Gary Sinise waves the green flag to start the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 23, 2014 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/NASCAR via Getty Images)

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Actor Gary Sinise waves the green flag to get the 2014 Daytona 500 under way.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 21: Justin Bartha poses with Jason Biggs at the driver's meeting prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 21, 2016 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

Sean Gardner | Getty Images

Actors Justin Bartha and Jason Biggs pose for photos at the driver's meeting before the 2016 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 20: Director Michael Bay, poses in the Transformer Wrecker before the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 20, 2011 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brandon Goodman/Getty Images)

Brandon Goodman | Getty Images

Director Michael Bay brought a Transformers flavor to the 2011 edition of the Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 24: Actor Drew Carey poses with Joey Logano, driver of the #22 Shell-Pennzoil/AAA Ford, prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 24, 2013 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/NASCAR via Getty Images)

Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images

Several stars of the television world have also made their way to Daytona International Speedway, including Drew Carey, who met up with Joey Logano before the 2013 race.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: TV host Jay Leno prepares to drive the pace car around the track after the NASCAR Busch Series Hershey's Kissables 300 race at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2006 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Ralph Notaro/Getty Images)

Ralph Notaro | Getty Images

Former "Tonight Show" host and noted car guy Jay Leno participated in the 2006 race weekend, driving the pace car during the Xfinity Series preliminary.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - 1969: Tonight Show television personality and Johnny Carson sidekick Ed McMahon enjoys pre-race activities before a NASCAR event at Daytona International Speedway. (Photo by ISC Images & Archives via Getty Images)

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Speaking of the "Tonight Show," longtime Johnny Carson sidekick Ed McMahon made an appearance at Daytona International Speedway in 1969.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 17: (L-R) Driver Kevin Harvick and Cesar Millan, dog behavior specialist, pose in the Driver/Owner Lot at Daytona International Speedway on February 17, 2012 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images for NASCAR)

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Kevin Harvick and "Dog Whisperer" TV star Cesar Millan meet up in the motorcoach lot ahead of the 2012 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 22: Actor Eric Stonestreet poses for a photo before taking a pacecar ride during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 57th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 22, 2015 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chris Trotman/NASCAR via Getty Images)

Chris Trotman | Getty Images

Actor Eric Stonestreet awaits his turn for a pace-car ride before the 2015 running of the Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL — February 12, 1960: Walter Cronkite of CBS Television (C) gets set to interview Fireball Roberts (R) after Roberts won the first qualifying race for the upcoming Daytona 500 NASCAR Cup race at Daytona International Speedway. NASCAR Commissioner Erwin “Cannon Ball” Baker (L) looks on. (Photo by ISC Images & Archives via Getty Images)

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Sometimes, media members covering the race rise to the level of celebrity. The great Walter Cronkite of CBS News tees up an interview with Hall of Famer Fireball Roberts after a qualifying race in 1960. NASCAR Commissioner Erwin “Cannon Ball” Baker joins in the post-race gathering.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 25: Kurt Busch, driver of the #41 Haas Automation/Monster Energy Ford, shows actress Jamie Lynn Spears around the garage area during practice for the 59th Annual DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 25, 2017 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

Chris Graythen | Getty Images

Kurt Busch provides actress Jamie Lynn Spears a tour of the garage area during practice for the 2017 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 24: Singer/musician Zac Brown of the Zac Brown Band performs prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 24, 2013 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images)

Jonathan Ferrey | Getty Images

Musical guests have also been a trademark of the Daytona 500 pre-race experience. The Zac Brown Band was on hand for the 2013 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA, FL - FEBRUARY 16: Recording artist Mariah Carey speaks during the pre race ceremonies at during the NASCAR Winston Cup Daytona 500 on February 16, 2003 at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona, Florida. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images).

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Recording artist Mariah Carey offers a warm-up performance for the crowd at the 2003 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 20: Musician Brad Paisley performs prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 20, 2011 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Tom Pennington | Getty Images

Brad Paisley gets the details right with a Daytona 500-themed guitar as he performs before the 2011 running.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 26: Lenny Kravitz performs during driver introductions prior to the start of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 26, 2012 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Jerry Markland | Getty Images

Lenny Kravitz finds the groove before driver introductions for the Daytona 500 in 2012.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 14: Singer and Trackhouse Racing Team co-owner Pitbull gives the command to start engine prior to during the NASCAR Cup Series 63rd Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 14, 2021 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

Chris Graythen | Getty Images

Recording artist and Trackhouse Racing co-owner Pitbull waves to the crowd before giving the command to start engines for the 2021 edition of the Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 19: Jon Bon Jovi and Jennifer Nettles perform with Bon Jovi prior to the Daytona 500 February 19, 2006 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Ralph Notaro/Getty Images)

Ralph Notaro | Getty Images

Jon Bon Jovi, accompanied by Jennifer Nettles, keeps the festivities rolling with a pre-race concert at the 2006 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 14: Singer Luke Combs performs prior to the NASCAR Cup Series 63rd Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 14, 2021 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

Chris Graythen | Getty Images

Singer Luke Combs offers his spin on Daytona 500 entertainment with a pre-race performance in 2021.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 23: Musician Luke Bryan performs during pre-race ceremonies for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 23, 2014 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images

Musician Luke Bryan fired up the fans in attendance for the 2014 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA, FL - FEBRUARY 17: (R) Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe's Chevrolet poses with singer Kelly Clarkson, before taking her for laps in a pace car during final practice for the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 17, 2007 in Daytona, Florida. (Photo by Rusty Jarrett/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Rusty Jarrett | Getty Images

Singer Kelly Clarkson, winner of the first season of "American Idol," buckles in for a pace-car lap with Jimmie Johnson at the controls before the 2007 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 24: Rapper Curtis

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Rapper Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson shares a moment with NFL player Wes Welker during the driver's meeting for the 2013 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 15: Singer Keith Urban performs during pre-race prior to the start of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 15, 2009 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

Chris Graythen | Getty Images

Singer Keith Urban gave his voice to the 2009 Daytona 500's pre-race musical act.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 22: Recording artist Cassadee Pope poses for a photo before taking a pace car ride during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 57th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 22, 2015 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chris Trotman/NASCAR via Getty Images)

Chris Trotman | Getty Images

Recording artist Cassadee Pope awaits her turn for a pace-car ride ahead of the 2015 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 22: Recording artist Funkmaster Flex takes part in pre-race ceremonies for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 57th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 22, 2015 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images)

Robert Reiners | Getty Images

Hip-hop artist Funkmaster Flex found his way to the frontstretch before the 2015 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 17: Musical group Brooks and Dunn perform prior to the start of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 17, 2008 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Marc Serota/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Marc Serota | Getty Images

Brooks & Dunn serve up the pre-race music for the Daytona 500 in 2008.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 23: Singer and Songwriter Aloe Blacc performs the national anthem during pre-race ceremonies for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 23, 2014 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Brian Lawdermilk/Getty Images)

Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images

Singer/songwriter Aloe Blacc was on hand to perform the national anthem before the 2014 edition of the "Great American Race."

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 14: Singer Tim McGraw performs prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 14, 2010 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)

Sam Greenwood | Getty Images

Tim McGraw delivers a rousing pre-race concert to tee up the 2010 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA, FL - FEBRUARY 17: Singer Kellie Pickler climbs into a car during practice for the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 17, 2007 in Daytona, Florida. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images for NASCAR)

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Singer Kellie Pickler is ready to hop in before the 2007 running of the Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 22: Recording artist Kid Rock performs prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 57th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 22, 2015 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images)

Robert Laberge | Getty Images

Kid Rock works the crowd for a 500 pre-race show from the Daytona International Speedway stage back in 2015.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 20: Singer Trace Adkins looks on before performing the national anthem prior to the NASCAR Cup Series 64th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 20, 2022 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images)

James Gilbert | Getty Images

Country artist Trace Adkins prepares to sing the national before the 64th-annual Daytona 500 in 2022.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 1975: Country & western singer Charlie Rich was the Honorary Starter for the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. (Photo by ISC Images & Archives via Getty Images)

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Digging further back into the archives, country and western artist Charlie Rich was enlisted for honorary starter duties at the Daytona 500 in 1975.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 17: Singer Chubby Checker prior to the running of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 17, 2008 in Daytona Beach, Florida.

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Michael McDonald, left, and Chubby Checker applaud during the Daytona 500 drivers' meeting in 2008. Of note, Checker's credential was issued with his given name, Ernest Evans.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 26: Rapper Waka Flocka Flame poses with New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski prior to the 59th Annual DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 26, 2017 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

Sean Gardner | Getty Images

Rapper Waka Flocka Flame makes a face with the NFL's Rob Gronkowski before the 2017 edition.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL — February 14, 1982: Country & Western star Mel Tillis enjoys pre-race activities before the Daytona 500 NASCAR Cup race at Daytona International Speedway. (Photo by ISC Images & Archives via Getty Images)

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Country and western star Mel Tillis has a smile during pre-race activities for the Daytona 500 in 1982.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 21: Wyclef Jean poses with Larenz Tate at the driver's meeting prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 21, 2016 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chris Trotman/NASCAR via Getty Images)

Chris Trotman | Getty Images

Wyclef Jean and actor Larenz Tate connect during the driver's meeting before 2016 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 20: Musician Dierks Bentley performs prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 20, 2011 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Cliff Hawkins | Getty Images

Musician Dierks Bentley finds some shade for a performance before the "Great American Race" in 2011.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 20: Vanessa Williams sings the National Anthem before the start of the NASCAR Nextel Cup Daytona 500 on February 20, 2005 at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona, Florida. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

Streeter Lecka | Getty Images

Vanessa Williams provides her rendition of the National Anthem before the start of the Daytona 500 in 2005.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 17: Singer Trisha Yearwood stands on stage during pre-race ceremony for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 17, 2008 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Marc Serota/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Marc Serota | Getty Images

Singer Trisha Yearwood waves from the pre-race stage ahead of the 2008 running of the Daytona 500.

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Ralph Notaro | Getty Images

Fergie of the Black Eyed Peas waves from the pace car just before the start of the 2006 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Team owner Rick Hendrick talks to Two-time Super Bowl winning quarterback Peyton Manning on the grid prior to the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sarah Crabill/Getty Images)

Sarah Crabill | Getty Images

The Daytona 500 has also been a destination for stars from other sports. Here, two-time Super Bowl winner Peyton Manning meets team owner Rick Hendrick on the pre-race grid in 2018.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 19: Former Dallas Cowboy quarterbacks Roger Staubach (L) and Troy Aikman answer questions during a press conference before the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series Daytona 500 on February 19, 2006 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Rusty Jarrett/Getty Images)

Rusty Jarrett | Getty Images

A pair of Dallas Cowboys greats took in the 2006 Daytona 500, as Roger Staubach, left, and Troy Aikman held court in a press conference from Daytona International Speedway.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 17: Grand Marshal,l NFL playe,r JJ Watt poses during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 61st Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 17, 2019 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

Chris Graythen | Getty Images

JJ Watt held grand marshal duties and gave the command for the 61st Daytona 500 in 2019.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Aaron Rodgers, quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, stands on the grid prior to the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers participated on the grid for the Daytona 500 in 2018.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 26: Kurt Busch, driver of the #41 Haas Automation/Monster Energy Ford, celebrates in Victory Lane with New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski after winning the 59th Annual DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 26, 2017 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images

The NFL's Rob Gronkowski made the most of his 2017 visit to the Daytona 500, celebrating with Kurt Busch in Victory Lane.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 20: NFL Hall of Fame cornerback Charles Woodson speaks to the media during a press conference prior to the NASCAR Cup Series 64th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 20, 2022 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images

NFL Hall of Famer Charles Woodson joined the Daytona International Speedway media center crowd for the Daytona 500 in 2022.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 21: Ndamukong Suh talks to Ken Griffey Jr during the drivers meeting prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 21, 2016 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

Sean Gardner | Getty Images

The worlds of football and baseball collided in 2016 at the World Center of Speed, with the NFL's Ndamukong Suh meeting up with MLB legend Ken Griffey Jr during the drivers' meeting in 2016.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 21: Ken Griffey Jr is seen in the flag stand prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 21, 2016 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chris Trotman/NASCAR via Getty Images)

Chris Trotman | Getty Images

Later, Ken Griffey Jr. waved the green flag to get the 2016 Daytona 500 off and running.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 21: Bryce Harper talks to Dale Earnhardt Jr., driver of the #88 Nationwide Chevrolet, at the driver's meeting prior to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 21, 2016 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

Sean Gardner | Getty Images

That same year, current baseball star Bryce Harper met up with Dale Earnhardt Jr. during the driver's meeting before the 2016 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Former MLB player Cal Ripken speaks during a press conference before the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2007 in Daytona, Florida. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Jamie Squire | Getty Images

Baseball ironman Cal Ripken Jr. met the press as part of the pre-race activities for the 2007 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 18: Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Chipper Jones waves to the crowd during the drivers meeting for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 60th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2018 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images)

Robert Laberge | Getty Images

Fellow Baseball Hall of Famer Chipper Jones waves to the crowd during the drivers' meeting for the 60th Annual Daytona 500 back in 2018.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL: NASCAR owner and mechanic Glen Wood (L) and baseball great Pete Rose during pre-race activities at the Daytona 500 NASCAR Cup race at Daytona International Speedway. (Photo by ISC Images & Archives via Getty Images)

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Two greats in their respective fields met up on pit road before the 1980 Daytona 500, as all-time hits leader Pete Rose chatted with the legendary Glen Wood during pre-race at Daytona International Speedway.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 20: Boston Red Sox' Johnny Damon chats with Houston Astros' Roger Clemens during pre-race festivities for the NASCAR Nextel Cup Daytona 500 on February 20, 2005 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images)

Jonathan Ferrey | Getty Images

Two stars of their era -- Johnny Damon and Roger Clemens -- chat on the pre-race grid for the 2005 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 19: Olympic silver medalist Gretchen Bleiler (L) and Gold medalist Hannah Teter pose with their medals in the garage area prior to the Daytona 500 February 19, 2006 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Ralph Notaro/Getty Images)

Ralph Notaro | Getty Images

Olympic standouts have also made their way to the Daytona 500 grid. Winter Games medalists Gretchen Bleiler, left, and Hannah Teter show off their hardware before the 2006 running.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 22: U.S. National Women's Soccer Team members Abby Wambach, Kelley O'Hara and Christie Rampone recieve instructions from NASCAR starter Kim Lopez for waving the green flag to start the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 57th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 22, 2015 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/NASCAR via Getty Images)

Jonathan Ferrey | Getty Images

U.S. National Women's Soccer Team members Abby Wambach, Kelley O'Hara and Christie Rampone get the lowdown from the starter's stand ahead of the 2015 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 26: US Olympic gold medalist Laurie Hernandez takes a selfie with Kasey Kahne, driver of the #5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet, prior to the 59th Annual DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 26, 2017 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

Sean Gardner | Getty Image

Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez takes a selfie with Kasey Kahne during the Daytona 500 drivers' meeting in 2017.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 26: Joey Logano (L), driver of the #20 The Home Depot Toyota, speaks to professional wrestler John Cena in the garage area prior to the start of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 26, 2012 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

Matthew Stockman | Getty Images

Superstars from the professional wrestling world have also taken part in Daytona 500 festivities. Here, John Cena meets Joey Logano at the 2012 race. Cena returned in 2016 as the honorary pace car driver.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 16: Former NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr.(L) and WWE wrestling star Sheamus pose for a photo opportunity at the driver's meeting prior to the NASCAR Cup Series 62nd Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 16, 2020 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images

WWE wrestler Sheamus flexes alongside Dale Earnhardt Jr. at the drivers' meeting before the 2020 Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 20: Honorary pace car driver, WWE Wrestlers Big E poses for a photo for prior to the NASCAR Cup Series 64th Annual Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 20, 2022 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images)

James Gilbert | Getty Images

Honorary pace car driver Big E leans on his ride for the 2022 edition of the Daytona 500.

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 13: MMA fighter Brock Lesnar(C) speaks with Kevin Harvick(L), driver of the #29 Shell/Pennzoil Chevrolet, and team owner Richard Childress during practice for the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 13, 2010 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jason Smith/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Jason Smith | Getty Images

Brock Lesnar talks shop with Kevin Harvick and team owner Richard Childress in the Daytona garage area before the 2010 running of the "Great American Race."

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL - FEBRUARY 13: Evander Holyfield poses with Kenny Hendrick and NASCAR Legend Richard Petty prior to practice for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 13, 2009 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Geoff Burke/Getty Images for NASCAR)

Geoff Burke | Getty Images

Boxing legend Evander Holyfield smiles alongside Richard Petty and Kenny Hendrick in the Daytona International Speedway garage area in 2009.