NASCAR Cup Series

Mario Andretti named Honorary Race Official for Daytona 500

Published Feb. 13, 2017 1:47 p.m. ET

Tim Durr

Mario Andretti will serve as an Honorary Race Official for the 59th running of the Great American Race on Feb. 26 on FOX.

Daytona International Speedway has a celebration planned throughout Speedweeks to honor the 50th anniversary of the racing icon's 1967 Daytona 500 win.

As part of Andretti's duties for the Great American Race will be his introduction at the drivers' meeting, participation in pre-race ceremonies, a ride in one of the parade cars and taking part in a Q&A session in the fan hospitality areas and the UNOH Fanzone.

A replica of Andretti's 1967 Daytona 500-winning No. 11 Holman-Moody Ford will be on display on Daytona 500 weekend.

“It’s an honor to host Mario Andretti for the Daytona 500,” Daytona International Speedway President Chip Wile said. “Mario is part of an exclusive club of champions at the ‘World Center of Racing’ and arguably has the most recognizable name in the entire history of auto racing. His victory here in 1967 has grown to legendary status and is truly one of the most significant moments in the history of the speedway and our community.”