Grammy-Award winning artist Pitbull has become part owner of a new NASCAR team with Trackhouse Racing, which is set to make its debut next month at the Daytona 500.
“I’ve been a fan of the NASCAR story since the movie ‘Days of Thunder,’” Pitbull, known as “Mr. Worldwide,” said in a statement. “We are going to show the world NASCAR is not only a sport but a culture.”
The race company made the announcement Friday with a video on social media featuring the platinum selling artist. In it, Pitbull is seen dancing and holding a sign that reads, “Knuckle Up, Fight Hard. Buckle Up. Fight Hard.”
Pitbull noted the announcement Friday coincided with his 40th birthday: “So get ready! Dale! (Dah-lay)” ending the statement with his signature tagline that translates to “Let’s go!”
He is the latest celebrity to become an owner in NASCAR. Hall of Fame basketball player Michael Jordan became part owner of 23XI Racing with Denny Hamlin, last year.
Former driver Justin Marks formed Trackhouse last year. He has struggled to find a charter that guarantees entry into every Cup Series race on the schedule but ultimately leased one from Spire Motorsports. Marks has vowed to purchase a charter. He also hopes eventually to base Trackhouse in Nashville, Tennessee, as part of a multiuse entertainment complex.
Daniel Suarez, the 2016 Xfinity Series champion, will be driving for Trackhouse, according to NASCAR.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.