Trump gets backing from US sports stars in bid to win Republican nomination

NASCAR CEO Brian France has joined a number of leading names from US sports and given his backing to Donald Trump as he seeks the Republican nomination.

France, along with current drivers Chase Elliott, Ryan Newman, and David Ragan plus Hall of Fame driver Bill Elliott, have pledged their support to Trump ahead of the latest round of presidential election primaries.

“I’ve known Donald for over 20 years,” France said at a rally in Valdosta, Ga. “I’m going to tell you one thing: you know about his winning and success. He wins with his family. Any of his children, you’d be proud to have in your family. That’s how I judge a winner.

“Mr Trump is changing politics forever and his leadership and strength are desperately needed. He has had an incredible career and achieved tremendous success. That is what we need for our country.”

France joins the likes of New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, UFC boss Dana White and ex-Atlanta Braves relief pitcher John Rocker in going public with their backing of Trump.

Given Rocker’s comments back in 1999 which caused a stir with the likes of Hillary Clinton and Rudy Giuliani, his stance maybe shouldn’t be a surprise.

“The biggest thing I don’t like about New York are the foreigners,” said Rocker. “I’m not a very big fan of foreigners. You can walk an entire block in Times Square and not hear anybody speaking English.

“Asians and Koreans and Vietnamese and Indians and Russians and Spanish people and everything up there. How the hell did they get in this country?”

Brady isn’t the only NFL personality to give his backing to Trump, with former players Hershcel Walker and Terrell Owens along with ex-Chicago Bears boss Mike Ditka lending their support to him.

Even NBA legend Dennis Rodman has got in the act, firing back at Ted Cruz after being called out by Trump’s rival on Twitter.

.@tedcruz: "When I was leading the fight against the Gang of 8 amnesty bill? Where was Donald? He was firing Dennis Rodman." #GOPDebate

— Fox News (@FoxNews) February 26, 2016

Yes @tedcruz; @realdonaldtrump did fire me on Celebrity Apprentice. But he's about to fire your ass too! #MakeAmericaGreatAgain

— Dennis Rodman (@dennisrodman) February 26, 2016

Former heavyweight boxer Mike Tyson has also thrown his weight behind Trump during an interview with FOX 5 New York.

He said: “If you want to get this city out of a dump, you better vote on Trump. OK? He’s an underdog and no one likes the fact that he is winning. I know Trump. This is a good thing. Vote on Trump.”