Public Art Installation Celebrates the Legacy of the DAYTONA 500 and Expands ONE DAYTONA’s Artistic Landscape
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 18, 2025) — A new piece of motorsports history is coming to ONE DAYTONA, as the Firebird 1 statue is officially presented to the public on Saturday, August 23. Inspired by the iconic Harley J. Earl Trophy and the legendary DAYTONA 500, the new statue adds to the growing collection of public art installations that make ONE DAYTONA a year-round cultural destination.
“Public art has always been a big part of what makes ONE DAYTONA special,” said Lesa Kennedy, NASCAR’s Executive Vice Chair. “The Firebird 1 statue keeps that tradition alive, blending motorsports history with art in a way that everyone can connect with. It’s a spot where people meet up, take photos, and feel the energy that makes this place so unique.”
The Firebird 1 statue, located in front of the newly opened EDGE Collection at ICON apartments, is the latest addition to ONE DAYTONA’s collection integrating art into public spaces, joining a growing collection of installations that include the Jantzen Diving Girl sculpture, vibrant murals, and other curated works that reflect the area’s culture, history, and innovation. This art-forward approach is part of ONE DAYTONA’s vision to blend lifestyle, entertainment, and creativity in an inviting, walkable environment for residents and visitors alike.
“An iconic photo opportunity and a tribute to the world’s most famous race, the Firebird 1 statue brings the spirit of the DAYTONA 500 into the heart of ONE DAYTONA,” said Frank Kelleher, President of Daytona International Speedway. “Its sleek, futuristic design reflects the artistry and vision of Harley J. Earl, whose groundbreaking Firebird 1 concept car pushed the boundaries of what was possible. That same Firebird 1 crowns the Harley J. Earl Trophy, hand-molded by renowned artist John Lajba and awarded each February to the DAYTONA 500 champion. Creativity, art, and a relentless drive to push boundaries have been the foundation of the World Center of Racing since its inception — and the Firebird 1 embodies that spirit.”
In celebration of this artistic spirit, visitors are also encouraged to mark their calendars for the annual ONE DAYTONA Art Festival, returning March 28 & 29, 2026. The two-day event brings together local and national artists, live performances, family-friendly activities, and interactive experiences — reinforcing ONE DAYTONA’s role as a hub for creative engagement and community gathering.
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