TIPS FOR FANS

How do I meet the racers?

If you're planning to attend the Daytona 500 and want to meet the drivers for autographs, here are some tips to increase your chances:

Arrive early
Drivers' availability is often tied to scheduled events, like practices, interviews, or special fan events. Get to the track early to take advantage of any opportunities to meet drivers. Be there when gates open for fan access events like driver meet-and-greets, autograph sessions, or Fanzones, where you can get closer to the action.

Check the schedule
Look for official NASCAR events leading up to the Daytona 500, such as autograph signings, special fan interactions, or pit road tours. Some drivers participate in pre-race or post-race fan events at the track, which are typically listed in the official event schedule. Pay attention to social media for updates. The Daytona International Speedway Fanzone is a prime location where drivers sometimes sign autographs or take part in fan engagement activities. Keep an eye on the schedule of events in this area.

Attend driver meet-and-greet events.
Certain sponsors or race teams often hold autograph sessions for fans. These events are sometimes open to ticket holders for the Daytona 500 or specific races over the weekend. Pre-race events like the Daytona 500 FanFest or sponsor-hosted events might have drivers signing autographs.

Be in the right place at the right time.
Pit roads and garage areas are often bustling with activity during practices or race days. While access to these areas is typically restricted, some events or special passes give fans a chance to see drivers as they walk through. If you’re in the Fanzone, keep an eye out for drivers walking to their cars or leaving the paddock. Some drivers will stop and sign autographs on their way to or from their cars.

Bring items to sign
Drivers may not always have memorabilia available to sign, so it’s a good idea to bring your own items, like hats, programs, shirts, or posters. These items are not only great for display, but they're also easier for the drivers to sign than large items. If you’re hoping for a picture or signature on something specific (like a car model, photo, or team jersey), be sure to bring it along.

Be patient and respectful.
Drivers have busy schedules, especially on race day. If you do catch them, be respectful of their time. They might only have a brief moment to sign autographs or take pictures. Sometimes, lines for autographs can get long, so patience is key. Be polite, and don’t interrupt them during interviews or other official commitments.

How to enjoy the race as comfortably as possible?

When it comes to NASCAR races, if you have an idea, thousands of people usually think the same way. So try to adjust your schedule differently to everyone else. Be anticipatory when eating or going to the toilet so you don't spend the best part of the day queuing.

Where to watch the race from?

In our grandstand guide, you will always find tips on where to go, and what you can see from a given grandstand. It's good to know what you are interested in beforehand. If you want to be as close to the track as possible, or if you are a keen amateur photographer and want the best shot, plan accordingly. One more thing to watch out for when planning your racetrack moves is the distances on racetracks can be pretty long. Some transitions between stands can take tens of minutes, especially if there are a lot of people on the racetrack. Instead, try to keep the transitions as short as possible.