WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio has been officially named the Grand Marshal for the 2025 NASCAR Coke Zero Sugar 400, taking place this Saturday at Daytona International Speedway. The high-flying wrestling icon will command the start of engines for the NASCAR Cup Series regular season finale, marking a thrilling crossover moment between professional wrestling and motorsports[1][2][3].
Alongside Mysterio, Flau’jae Johnson, an NCAA Women’s Basketball National Champion with the LSU Tigers and a rising music star, will serve as the honorary starter, waving the green flag to kick off this significant race. The announcements were made by Daytona International Speedway president Frank Kelleher, who highlighted the unique blend of sports and entertainment these two diverse stars bring to one of NASCAR’s marquee events[1][2].
Mysterio’s Role as Grand Marshal: A Historic Moment for WWE in NASCAR
The WWE Hall of Famer, famed for his masked persona and decades of championship success—including multiple Cruiserweight, Tag Team, World Heavyweight, and WWE Championships—will bring his trademark energy and charisma to the iconic Daytona track. This role as Grand Marshal places Mysterio in a prominent position to officially start the Coke Zero Sugar 400, one of NASCAR’s most anticipated races and the dramatic conclusion to the regular Cup Series season[1][3].
“I’m hyped to be part of something this legendary and bring my energy to the track,” Mysterio expressed in a recent interview captured by several sports media outlets, including Fightful and WrestleTalk. His involvement continues WWE’s growing presence in cultural and sporting events outside wrestling, enhancing his status as a global sports entertainment ambassador[3].
Flau’jae Johnson: Multi-Talented Star Joins Mysterio at Daytona
Joining Mysterio as the honorary starter, Flau’jae Johnson embodies a rare combination of athletic prowess and artistic talent. As an NCAA Women’s Basketball National Champion and a promising WNBA draft prospect, Johnson also pursues a music career as a rapper signed to Roc Nation. Speedway President Frank Kelleher emphasized her multifaceted appeal, noting her ability to bring excitement and passion to the event alongside the legendary wrestler[1][3].
Their participation underscores NASCAR’s tradition of incorporating influential figures from outside racing to broaden the event’s appeal and celebrate crossover cultural moments—a legacy dating back to 2022 with basketball legend Dawn Staley’s involvement[3].
NASCAR Coke Zero Sugar 400: High Stakes and High Drama
The race, set for 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on August 23 at the 2.5-mile Daytona superspeedway, represents the final regular-season event in the NASCAR Cup Series. It will feature a $9,797,935 purse and is crucial for drivers battling to secure playoff berths. Currently, 14 drivers have clinched spots, leaving the last two playoff positions fiercely contested heading into the weekend’s event[4].
Qualifying rounds for the Coke Zero Sugar 400 took place on August 22, setting the stage for intense pack racing known for superspeedways. Potential weather challenges from Tropical Storm Erin may influence the race, but favorable dry conditions are expected, contributing to anticipation for a competitive and action-packed night under the lights[4].
The Significance of Mysterio’s Presence at NASCAR
According to sources close to WWE and Daytona, Mysterio’s role goes beyond ceremonial duties. Behind the scenes, it is seen as a strategic partnership to amplify fan engagement across sports entertainment and motorsports demographics. WWE insiders speculated that Mysterio’s involvement could pave the way for future collaborations or special WWE-themed promotions at NASCAR events, tapping into the passionate, crossover fan base that both organizations cultivate.
An official from WWE.com recently noted, “Rey Mysterio represents not just wrestling excellence but also a cultural bridge that aligns perfectly with NASCAR’s evolving fan experience.” Similarly, podcasts such as Wrestling Observer and media interviews have highlighted Mysterio’s broad appeal, reinforcing this NASCAR appearance’s marketing and fan engagement potential.
Bringing High-Flying Energy to “The World Center of Racing”
Frank Kelleher captured the sentiment best in the official press release: “Rey is sure to bring his high-flying energy giving the command to start engines while Flau’jae waves the green flag with passion under the lights. Their star power will set the stage for an unforgettable night at The World Center of Racing.” This phrasing reflects the excitement NASCAR has for the pairing of these two stars from distinct but ever-converging entertainment worlds[1][2][3].
Looking Ahead
The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series regular season finale promises excitement both on and off the track. With Mysterio leading the pre-race festivities and Johnson adding her flair as honorary starter, fans can expect an electrifying night filled with memorable moments that transcend traditional racing boundaries.
For fans of WWE, motorsport, or both, Saturday’s Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona is a must-watch event that celebrates the spirit of competition, cross-sport camaraderie, and the unifying power of sports entertainment.
This article draws upon official announcements from Daytona International Speedway, coverage from WrestleTalk, WrestleView, and The Express, and insider insights sourced from WWE.com and relevant sports media interviews.