NASCAR drivers Kyle Larson, Denny Hamlin, and William Byron were genuinely surprised by the fanfare they received at Fanatics Fest in New York this past weekend. The event, held in New York City, brought together a mix of celebrities and fans, creating an unexpected surge of interest for the racers. Despite the city not being a traditional hub for auto racing, the drivers found themselves at the center of a passionate fanbase.
Some of NASCAR’s biggest stars, including the aforementioned drivers, were among the high-profile celebrities at Fanatics Fest on Friday. The Big Apple, while not typically known for its loud sports crowds, saw a significant turnout for the event. Among the notable attendees were fans of other New York legends such as Derek Jeter and Eli Manning, who drew considerable attention throughout the weekend.
However, the NASCAR drivers were flabbergasted by the reactions they received from the fans. Kyle Larson admitted he didn’t expect the level of recognition he received, calling it ‘pretty cool.’ William Byron expressed similar surprise, noting the presence of many 24 fans at the event. Denny Hamlin, who is also participating in the Fanatics Games, shared that the overwhelming response was ‘overwhelming,’ highlighting the unique atmosphere of the event.
The event also featured other celebrities such as Caleb Williams, Bryce Young, CJ Stroud, Logan Paul, Michael Strahan, Travis Scott, and Livvy Dunne. LeBron James, Victor Wembanyana, and numerous others made their rounds throughout the weekend, adding to the event’s diverse mix of entertainment and sports.
The Fanatics Fest provided an unexpected platform for NASCAR drivers to connect with fans outside of their typical racing circuit. The drivers’ surprise at the fan reception underscores the event’s role in bridging the gap between professional athletes and their fanbases. As they prepare for upcoming races, including the Pocono event, the drivers expressed their appreciation for the support they received at the festival.