Owens to replace Mysterio as Coke Zero Sugar 400 grand marshal

Daytona Beach, Fla. – Daytona International Speedway announced a pair of celebrity dignitaries for the Coke Zero Sugar 400, naming Rey Mysterio as grand marshal and Flaujae Johnson as honorary starter. In a late development, Mysterio was ultimately replaced by Kevin Owens as grand marshal for the NASCAR Cup Series regular-season finale, which will still feature Johnson waving the green flag. The event will take place at the Daytona International Speedway this weekend, with racing under the lights in Daytona Beach.

The track’s leadership said the dual roles were chosen to spotlight the crossover appeal between motorsports and entertainment. “We are honored to have the great WWE Hall of Fame wrestler Rey Mysterio and the multitalented NCAA Women’s Basketball National Champion and musician Flaujae Johnson serve as our grand marshal and honorary starter for the Coke Zero Sugar 400,” said the track’s president. “Rey is sure to bring his high-flying energy giving the command to start engines while Flaujae 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.”