CISA, NASCAR target Daytona 500 fan safety

Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and NASCAR officials recently joined Daytona International Speedway personnel, first responders, and law enforcement officials in conducting a Daytona 500 fan safety tabletop exercise.

The exercise serves as an example of the planning and coordination occurring before race day on Feb.14 to keep fans safe.

“The Daytona 500 is one of the biggest sporting events of the year, and keeping everyone involved safe is an equally big task,” CISA Acting Assistant Director for Infrastructure Security Scott Breor said. “CISA has a longstanding relationship with NASCAR and the Dayton 500, and we look forward to continuing to work with them and all our partners throughout the region to do our part to ensure the race is safe and secure.”

Participants discussed their roles, shared best practices, and bolstered coordination mechanisms to help keep the public safe – adding the exercise is part of an ongoing partnership between those involved and was not in response to any specific threat.

“The safety of every person at the DAYTONA 500 and all of our events as a part of Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth is our top priority,” Daytona International Speedway President Chip Wile said. “Both the Speedway and NASCAR want our fans, competitors, staff, and all others to always have a safe, secure experience while here to enjoy the Great American Race.”