52nd Daytona 500 to be staged in front of capacity crowd: 'The Great American Race' is racing's most coveted ticket

Courtesy photo. Grammy-winning county singer Tim McGraw will sing the National Anthem for today's 52nd running of the Daytona 500. 

DAYTONA BEACH -- After listening to race fans and delivering a new rules package and the earliest start time for the Daytona 500 since 2003 -- all in an effort to make NASCAR racing even more exciting - the 52nd annual Daytona 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday will again be played out in front of a capacity crowd and millions more around the world on FOX Sports and MRN Radio.

While grandstand seats are no longer available, fans can still purchase infield tickets for "The Great American Race," which will go green at 1 p.m., 2 ½ hours earlier than last year's start time.

In addition, ticket holders can still purchase Sprint FANZONE/Pre-Race access or tickets to the Daytona 500 After Party or Daytona 500 Champion's Breakfast at the Daytona 500 Experience.

"There's nothing like experiencing the excitement and pageantry of the Daytona 500 in person and we're proud to host another full house for this year's 'Great American Race,' " Daytona International Speedway President Robin Braig said. "Through our unique ticket packages, a new start time and NASCAR's new rules, our loyal and passionate fans have responded. We appreciate their support and look forward to another memorable Daytona 500 on Sunday."

Fans that have purchased a coveted ticket to the Daytona 500 will witness the stars of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series battling for supremacy for 200 laps, 500 miles for the ultimate prize in motorsports- the Harley J. Earl trophy.

In addition, multiple Grammy award-winner Tim McGraw will perform in the Daytona 500 Pre-Race Show, the prelude to the NASCAR's prestigious season-opening event.

For information on tickets to any future Daytona International Speedway events, call 1-800-PITSHOP or visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com