Chip Ganassi named Grand Marshal for Rolex 24 at Daytona

Iconic American racing team owner Chip Ganassi will serve as the Grand Marshal for the Rolex 24 at Daytona sports car race later this month.

Ganassi will celebrate 30 years as a team owner in 2018, and will kick off the year by giving the starter's orders for the twice-around-the-clock endurance classic at Daytona International Speedway on January 27.

Ganassi has tasted success on seven occasions at Daytona, but is relishing the opportunity to take up the role of Grand Marshal for this year's event.

"This is a really big honour for me to be recognized by a race that has meant so much to me over my career, both as a driver and an owner," said Ganassi.

"The Rolex 24 At Daytona is one of motorsport’s truly significant races. There are so many great cars, great drivers and manufacturers that all come together to make this a unique event.

"But it also requires so much work and coordination that when you ultimately make it to victory lane there is no greater satisfaction. I couldn’t be more proud to be named the Grand Marshal of this great race."