Jameis Winston Takes Over INDYCAR Pre-Race, Delivers Pep Talk to Rookie Hauger
Jameis Winston delivered an inspiring pre-race speech at the INDYCAR Firestone Grand Prix, motivating rookie driver Dennis Hauger and his team with enthusiasm and encouragement.
Jameis Winston commandeered the microphone at INDYCAR's Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on Sunday, lending his motivational prowess to the racing circuit—and one rookie driver in particular.
Winston delivered an extended pre-race speech to Dennis Hauger ahead of the 22-year-old's first INDYCAR race at St. Pete, christening him the "Norwegian Nightmare" in the process.
The One-on-One
"Age ain't nothing but a number. You were built for this moment. Look at your team—everybody that's helped you get to this point, it's intentional. There's a reason you're here right now. So, I don't care if this is your first race on this mark. I don't care if you're a rookie. Who cares about rookies, right?
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"You have put in the work. Your dedication is going to allow you to be your very best today. You better believe that. You lock in. It's about execution. Your trust in decisions will get you to where you need to be. You wake up looking like your parents, but you die looking like your choices and decisions. So, make the decision to go out there and execute today."
Hauger, who captured the Indy NXT title last year, received the remarks graciously.
"That's good marks, thanks man. Now, we've got to go and do it," Hauger replied.
The Team Address
Winston then assembled Hauger and his entire crew for a final rallying cry.
"Rookies, no one has respect for rookies. But think about the work you've put in. Think about your desire. What would you love? You would love to come home with this victory. They call him the 'Norwegian Nightmare.' The people of Norway are used to winning from the Winter Olympics. But we're out here in sunny St. Pete, Florida, doing something that you love. You love the precision. You love the detail. You love leaning on every man and woman that's a part of your crew. So, align with them, set your vision and go out there and be precise and execute to the best of your ability.
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"I'm not new to this, you're new to this. Congratulations already in advance, man. Get locked in. Don't worry about the rest of these people. Do what you love."
Winston has built a track record for delivering viral motivational moments that capture social media's attention. His latest speech may well become another memorable addition to his collection—and possibly inspire Hauger to "Eat a W."
