DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – North America's most prestigious sports car race, also known as the Rolex 24 at Daytona, is just days away and folks will be able to experience some of the upgrades the Daytona International Speedway has to offer.
"We pack the infield with fans, displays, activities, you name it. We're going to go sports car racing and the Rolex 24 is a great place to kick it off," said Joie Chitwood, president of Daytona International Speedway.
Chitwood said the event will be filled with an international field of drivers, cars and visitors from around the world.
"It's amazing! Over 21 countries listed. I think I saw Korea, Europe, you name it," said Chitwood.
Fans will also have a chance to see and experience the latest upgrades, like the 40 thousand renovated seats, thanks to the Daytona Rising Project.
"It's open but not finished. There's still a little bit of pardon our dust experience but it's going to be amazing. The fact that fans can sit in brand new seats, ride escalators all the way to the top and really enjoy some great sight lines that we've never had before," said Chitwood.
The event kicks off Thursday morning and the race starts Saturday at 2 p.m.
"Just a lot of activity! Whether it's racing on the track, activities off the track, we're going to make sure fans will have a great experience," said Chitwood.
Besides the 24 hour racing, folks can enjoy carnival rides, a Ferris wheel, participate in the Daytona 5k on Saturday morning and a fireworks show Saturday night.
It's the 53rd anniversary of the Rolex 24 at Daytona.