Breaking News: NASCAR Honors Rick Hendrick Motorsports Fan After Ohio State Marching Band Named World’s Best by ESPN
Charlotte, NC – May 16, 2025 — In an unexpected and heartwarming turn of events, NASCAR has honored a devoted Rick Hendrick Motorsports fan after the Ohio State University Marching Band was named the World’s Best by ESPN, following a jaw-dropping, globally televised performance. The fan, identified as 22-year-old Emily Lawson of Dayton, Ohio, is being celebrated not only for her loyalty to Hendrick Motorsports but for her passionate role in rallying public support for the Ohio State Marching Band, also known as “The Best Damn Band in the Land”
Lawson, a lifelong fan of both NASCAR and the Buckeyes, gained national attention when her viral campaign on social media helped draw millions of new viewers to Ohio State’s now-historic Spring Game halftime performance. The electrifying display, themed “Legends Never Die,” left audiences around the world stunned with its emotional tributes, intricate formations, and immersive visuals — ultimately earning ESPN’s coveted title of the World’s Best Marching Band.
Following the band’s recognition, NASCAR officials extended an invitation to Lawson to attend this weekend’s All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway as a VIP guest of Rick Hendrick Motorsports. To her surprise, Lawson was brought on stage during the pre-race festivities and presented with a custom race helmet, autographed by Hendrick drivers Chase Elliott, Kyle Larson, William Byron, and Alex Bowman — all of whom thanked her for being a passionate ambassador for motorsports and collegiate pride.
“Emily’s enthusiasm captured what being a fan is all about,” said NASCAR President Steve Phelps. “She represents the spirit, energy, and crossover appeal that connects sports communities. Whether it’s in the grandstands at a NASCAR race or in the bleachers at a Buckeyes game, her voice has made a national impact.”
Lawson, a music education student at Ohio State, had launched her online campaign just days before the performance, urging sports fans of all kinds — especially those from the motorsports world — to tune in and witness the halftime show. Her tweets, which often linked her love of race-day adrenaline to the pageantry of marching bands, resonated with thousands, including many within NASCAR’s official channels.
“I’ve always said NASCAR pit crews and marching bands have more in common than people think — the speed, the teamwork, the pressure to perform perfectly in front of a crowd,” Lawson told reporters after the ceremony. “To see the band get the global recognition it deserves, and to be part of that moment — it means everything.”
The Ohio State Marching Band’s performance has since garnered over 50 million views online, with fans praising its flawless choreography, emotional depth, and innovative use of technology. NASCAR’s embrace of Lawson’s efforts marks a growing trend of collaboration and cross-promotion among major American sports, celebrating fan dedication across all arenas.
As Lawson waved the green flag to start Sunday’s race, cheers erupted from the crowd — a powerful reminder that the passion of a single fan can bridge two of America’s most iconic institutions: college football and NASCAR.
