Ray Lewis retired from playing in the NFL, and a few months away from his new gig as an ESPN analyst, so Lewis has some free time on his hands.
He apparently will spend this Sunday watching a lot of fast cars. USA Today is reporting that the Florida native will be the honorary starter of the Daytona 500.
Daytona International Speedway president Joie Chitwood III said Lewis’ selection as honorary starter would be an appropriate choice to start the season.
“It doesn’t get any bigger than Ray Lewis — the leader of the Super Bowl-winning team,” Chitwood said.
Lewis, a Central Florida native, will join James Franco (who will say “Drivers, start your engines” in his role as the grand marshal) as honorary race officials.
Lewis is reportedly friends with defending NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Brad Keselowski. Upon hearing Keselowski was inspired during the Sprint Cup Chase by a video game commercial narrated by Lewis, Ray left a motivational phone message for Keselowski before the Homestead race.