Celebrities commanding the start of the Daytona 500 have always set the tone for the iconic race. In a recent article, we look back at five memorable instances where famous personalities took on the role of Grand Marshal and delivered the crucial command.
In 2014, actor Chris Evans, best known as Captain America, kicked off the 56th edition of the race with a powerful “Drivers, start your engines” command. The race was won by Dale Earnhardt Jr. of Hendrick Motorsports.
The 2018 Daytona 500 saw Earnhardt Jr. return as the Grand Marshal, igniting the crowd with his passionate command. Austin Dillon of Richard Childress Racing emerged victorious that year.
In 2007, actor Nicholas Cage brought a chilling aura to the event with his command to “Gentlemen, start your engines.” Kevin Harvick of Richard Childress Racing secured the win.
Dwayne Johnson, also known as The Rock, took on the role of Grand Marshal in 2024, electrifying the audience with his patriotic command. William Byron of Hendrick Motorsports claimed the victory.
Former President Donald Trump made a memorable appearance as the Grand Marshal in 2020, declaring, “Gentlemen, start your engines” alongside First Lady Melania Trump. The race was won by Denny Hamlin of Joe Gibbs Racing.
These celebrity commands have become an integral part of the Daytona 500 tradition, setting the stage for an exhilarating and competitive race that fans eagerly anticipate year after year.
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