New York, NY (Atlantic Records) - As drivers get ready to start their engines for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Auto Club 500 at California Speedway on February 26, multi-talented Grammy nominated artist Jewel will get the NASCAR fans warmed up for the big race as she headlines the nationally televised Pre-Race show on FOX at 12:30 PM/PST. This will be the first ever televised pre-race show at the Speedway. Kicking off NASCAR's 2006 coverage on FOX, the Auto Club 500 is the West Coast Premiere and the second race of the season for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series—one week following the Daytona 500.

Widely celebrated as an internationally known vocalist and songwriter, Jewel is among the most successful female performers on the music scene today. Her last five albums have sold more the 25 million copies worldwide. Jewel's new album, GOODBYE ALICE IN WONDERLAND arrives on May 2nd. Her new single, 'Again And Again' has gotten overwhelming reaction at radio. For more information on the new album, single and video, visit www.jeweljk.com.

Her musical and songwriting talents have received multiple awards - Jewel is a three-time Grammy Award nominee and the recipient of an American Music Award and a MTV Music Award. In 1999, Jewel was presented with the prestigious Governor's Award from the Los Angeles chapter of The Recording Academy (NARAS) for her creative talents and accomplishments in the music community.

The West Coast Premiere of NASCAR takes place at California Speedway with the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series 200-miler (February 24), NASCAR Busch Series Stater Bros. 300 (February 25) and NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Auto Club 500 (February 26). Purchase your tickets today by calling 800-944-RACE or online at www.californiaspeedway.com.