Trump endorsed by NASCAR CEO, drivers

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump received a major show of support from the sports world Monday when NASCAR chairman and CEO Brian France endorsed the GOP front-runner during a rally in Valdosta, Ga.

Trump also received endorsements from several NASCAR drivers, including rookie Chase Elliott and his retired father, Bill, the 1988 Winston Cup Series champion, Ryan Newman, and David Lee Regan. The endorsements come just hours before Super Tuesday, the first day of multiple-state voting in the presidential race.

"Mr. Trump is changing American politics forever and his leadership and strength are desperately needed," France said of the billionaire-turned-politician. "He has had an incredible career and achieved tremendous success. This is what we need for our country."

Monday's announcement caps a busy week of high-profile endorsements for the outspoken candidate, who also received key endorsements from New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and Senator Jeff Sessions.

Most national Republican polls show Trump with a significant lead in his bid for the party's nomination, while commanding as much as 49 percent of the GOP primary vote, according to the latest CNN/ORC poll.

There will be 595 delegates across 11 states up for grabs Tuesday for the Republican party. Candidates require 1,237 to clinch the nomination.