NASCAR’s Daytona 500 recently faced an unexpected washout due to heavy rains. This resulted in the popular event losing out on its promoters DJ Khaled and Pitbull. However, while these two mega-stars of the music industry left NASCAR’s side, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson showed just why he is revered for his work ethic and loyalty.

Interestingly, however, The Brahma Bull wasn’t the only one who displayed class as part of their deal. Johnson was also reportedly treated like royalty by the Daytona 500 organizers, which made The Rock’s already natural generosity flow more easily. Notably, his presence also left racing icon Dale Earnhardt Jr. in awe of The Rock’s charisma and goodwill.

Dwayne Johnson felt like royalty at the Daytona 500 

The NASCAR Cup Series kicked off in style with the highly anticipated Daytona 500 on Monday, drawing racing enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. Among the luminaries gracing the event, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson stood out as a notable presence. 

In his role as Grand Marshal, Johnson delivered the iconic command: “Drivers, start your engines,” marking the commencement of the thrilling event. Notably, Dale Earnhardt Jr. discussed this memorable moment on his podcast following the race.

Earnhardt Jr. also opened up about other special things that NASCAR did for The Rock. He stated, “I heard they put him up in this little thing and they emptied out the suite next to him so he could bring all his workout gear and have a little gym.” This was the moment that Johnson felt like royalty as already he had a suite, but the Daytona 500 team still chose to let him have another room as well just for his gym. 

Serving as Grand Marshal for the opening ceremony, Johnson added prestige to the occasion. Prior to the race, he joined in a solemn prayer with the US Military before addressing the crowd of 100,000 motorsport fans to officially start the race.

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But that’s not all. Earnhardt Jr. was also super impressed by how Johnson performed and even went on to express it. 

Dale Earnhardt Jr. impressed by Dwayne Johnson

In the same podcast, Earnhardt Jr. was seen praising Johnson. He claimed, “Really kind comments about NASCAR from The Rock. The guy did a good job. I compare the people we bring to our events to the other events. Are we matching? Are we meeting what’s happening in the Super Bowl and so forth? The Rock is right in that range of some mega-celebrity. He’s a great promoter. So he knows how to make it sound great.” He continued, “He came in and did a good job.” 

Earnhardt Jr. appreciated Johnson’s commitment during the Daytona 500 weekend, noting his presence despite having no obligations after the race was postponed. “Lot of people, they leave. ‘I’m not gonna stay. Sorry. I got things to do.’ But he stayed,” stated Jr. Surprisingly Johnson also paid tribute to the legend of the country Toby Keith after his Marshal duty. What do you think about Dwayne Johnson getting royalty treatment from the NASCAR? 

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