After the swimming leg of the Paris Olympics concluded on August 9th, Caeleb Dressel, despite a challenging performance at the Paris La Défense Arena, returned home for some much-needed rest. As this marked his first Summer Games as a father, Dressel made the most of his downtime by spending as much time as possible with his young son. “I’ve been glued to him in the past couple weeks,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of family during this period. Aside from reconnecting with loved ones, Dressel also embraced the simpler joys of life. He indulged in a proper burger, tended to his cows and dogs, and even took to mowing his own lawn—actions reflecting a deep love for ordinary moments away from the competitive stage.
But how did this nine-time Olympic gold medalist make it from a quiet home life to the roar of engines at the Daytona International Speedway? Dressel took on the role of honorary event official at the Coke Zero Sugar 400 Cup Series race. Speaking to SwimSwam’s Mel Stewart, the 28-year-old recounted his experience. “Yeah, so what’s funny about that is that was my first race in Daytona,” Dressel admitted. Despite his Florida roots, this marked his inaugural trip to the famed speedway. Interestingly, Dressel revealed that while it was his first time physically at Daytona, he had driven the course many times in a popular video game, sparking a sense of familiarity and fun. “I’m definitely going to be going back to the 500 in February. That treat from Toyota and NASCAR was so awesome,” he added enthusiastically.
When asked about the overall experience, Dressel shared his appreciation for the event but noted that the VIP treatment wasn’t entirely his style. “I think we were in the NASCAR Suite. That was a little too fancy for me. I kind of wanted to be like in the crowd with my people, you know?” Known for his grounded, down-to-earth persona, it’s clear Dressel cherishes the simplicity of life over the glitz and glamour.Caeleb Dressel Opens Up About NASCAR Experience During Swimming Hiatus: ‘You Know My People!’
During his recent hiatus from competitive swimming, Olympic champion Caeleb Dressel took time to explore new interests—one of which involved the high-octane world of NASCAR. Dressel, known for his speed and power in the water, found himself drawn to the fast-paced environment on the racetrack.In a candid interview, Dressel shared his excitement about his NASCAR experience. “It was a whole new world for me, but it felt like home. There’s something about the energy, the passion, and the drive that really resonated with me. You know my people!” Dressel exclaimed, referring to the camaraderie he felt with the NASCAR community.For Dressel, who is typically seen dominating the pool, this break from swimming provided a fresh perspective. While he’s a powerhouse in the water, it seems the thrill of roaring engines and the tight-knit NASCAR culture offered a different kind of adrenaline rush.Though Dressel has hinted at returning to swimming, his NASCAR adventure shows that elite athletes often find ways to recharge their passions, whether it’s through new hobbies or unexpected environments. Fans of both NASCAR and swimming can look forward to seeing where his interests take him next—whether that’s back to the pool or onto the racetrack.
Leading up to his appearance, Frank Kelleher, the president of Daytona International Speedway, couldn’t have been more excited. “After his triumphant return to the Olympic stage this summer, we’re eager to welcome Caeleb Dressel to the World Center of Racing for the Coke Zero Sugar 400,” Kelleher said, highlighting the pride Daytona felt in hosting the Florida native. Dressel’s participation further cemented his status as a local legend, receiving a fitting homecoming.Dressel wasn’t alone for this special moment—he was joined by his wife, Meghan, and his son, August. Also sharing the experience was Bobby Finke, fellow Olympic gold medalist in the 1500m, who spent time with Dressel and his family during the event. Dressel became the first active Olympic gold medalist in nine years to wave the green flag at a Cup Series race, following in the footsteps of alpine skiing legend Lindsey Vonn.
Looking ahead, Dressel hinted that this may just be the beginning of his involvement with the motorsport world. “I’m definitely going to the 500 in February,” he remarked, signaling more NASCAR appearances to come. Fresh from his Paris performance, Dressel’s future seems poised not only for a return to Olympic glory but for new adventures, both in and out of the pool.
For a world-class athlete with a heart rooted in the simple joys of life, it’s clear that whether he’s swimming, mowing the lawn, or waving a flag at Daytona, Dressel is living life to the fullest—and there’s more to come.
“Caeleb Dressel Opens Up About NASCAR Experience During Swimming Hiatus: ‘You Know My People!'”
