Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie𝓰 Johnson says Fernando Alonso’s recent exploits racing in the United States have opened up “worldwide exposure” which he sees as a huge benefit for all parties.

Johnson met with Alonso at the Daytona med🔥ia day this week with the two-time Formula 1 world champion preparing for his maiden Rolex 24 at Daytona race with United Autosports. Having made his Indianapolis 500 debut last year with McLaren-Andretti, Alonso returns to the stateside thanks to the backing from McLaren chief Zak Brown who co-owns the Anglo-American United Autosports squad.

Johnson says he’s kept a close eye on Alonso’s effoﷺrts 🐲both at the Indianapolis 500 and the upcoming Daytona 24-hour race and has been massively impressed by his efforts both on and off track.

“I've been a huge Alonso f𓄧ans for🔯 a lot of years,” Johnson said at a NASCAR media day in Charlotte. “Just mentioned to him out there that the way he came and ran Indy, I mean, certainly did an amazing job in the car, but outside of the car.

“The friends that I have on the In🌳dyCar circuit, just handled himself so well, did a great job. I think really brought a lot to the table when he raced here. Worldwide exposure on motorsports is really good for us here stateside.”

Free practice and qualifying for the 2018 Rolex 24 at🦩 Daytona gets underway today (Thursday 25th January) ahead of the race which ta🐼kes place this weekend on the 27-28th January.

During the ‘Roar before the 24’ pre-event test, Alonso put his #23 United Autosports Ligier 12th in test qualifying with🌞 ex-Formula 1 driver Felipe Nasr topping the times with the #31 Action Express Cadillac Dpi.