Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s Senior Vice President of Racing Development and Strategy, is no stranger to speed—but even his years in stock car racing couldn’t prepare him for the ride of a lifetime. Ahead of the 2025 Daytona 500, Kennedy had the unique opportunity to fly with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, experiencing the incredible power and precision of the elite fighter jet demonstration team.
From the Track to the Skies
Kennedy, the great-grandson of NASCAR founder Bill France Sr., has spent his life immersed in the world of motorsports, from racing in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series to playing a key role in the sport’s future leadership. However, his recent flight with the Thunderbirds took him into uncharted territory—literally thousands of feet above the ground at speeds exceeding 1,000 mph.
“It was absolutely incredible,” Kennedy said after the flight. “I’ve been around high speeds my entire life, but this was a whole new level. The skill and precision of the Thunderbirds are unbelievable, and it was an honor to experience what they do firsthand.”
A Ride Unlike Any Other
Kennedy flew in an F-16 Fighting Falcon, a jet capable of pulling up to 9 Gs while performing tight turns, rolls, and loops. The Thunderbirds, known for their high-energy aerial performances at major sporting events, have a longstanding connection with NASCAR, frequently conducting flyovers at races, including the prestigious Daytona 500.
During his flight, Kennedy endured intense gravitational forces, executed high-speed maneuvers, and even got a firsthand look at the discipline and teamwork required to operate in the U.S. Air Force’s premier demonstration squadron.
Strengthening the NASCAR-Thunderbirds Partnership
The ride symbolizes the ongoing relationship between NASCAR and the military, particularly the U.S. Air Force. The Thunderbirds have been a staple of NASCAR pre-race ceremonies, and the Air Force has long been involved in the sport through sponsorships and recruitment efforts.
With NASCAR’s 2025 season kicking off in spectacular fashion, Kennedy’s experience highlights the shared values of speed, precision, and teamwork between motorsports and the military. And while he may have returned to solid ground, it’s safe to say he’ll never look at a Daytona 500 flyover the same way again.
