On Thursday’s episode of NASCAR RaceHub, NASCAR announced that former Alabama quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa would serve as the Grand Marshal for Sunday’s Cup Series race at Homestead-Miami Speedway, the Dixie Vodka 400. 

RaceHub announced Tagovailoa as the Grand Marshal and former Miami Hurricane star, Jonathan Vilma as the race's Honorary Starter. Tagovailoa gave the command for drivers to start their engines and after a few hot laps around the track, Vilma waved the green flag for the race to begin.

Tagovailoa has quickly become a fan-favorite in the city of Miami after his rookie season as the starting quarterback of the Dolphins. The former Heisman-finalist started nine games for the Dolphins and threw for over 1,800 yards and 11 touchdowns.

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"Having Tua and Jonathan join us for this special weekend is a true honor, and we are thrilled to host them," said Al Garcia, Homestead-Miami Speedway President. "Tua helped to return the Dolphins to their winning ways last year, and Jonathan was a key member of several successful University of Miami teams, continuing the school’s tradition of greatness. We know that many NFL players have recently taken a vested interest in NASCAR, and we are happy that both will have the opportunity to see just how exciting our sport can be."

Denny Hamlin will lead the rest of the field to the starting line as he landed the pole position for Sunday’s race. Mobile native Bubba Wallace started the race in the tenth row. This was the third points race of the NASCAR season and many of NASCAR’s biggest names are still seeking their first win of the season. The Dixie Vodka 400 took place at Homestead-Miami Speedway on Sunday. 

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