Last year's Nascar Sprint Cup runner-up Denny Hamlin has signed an endorsement deal with Nike's Jordan brand.

30-year old Hamlin, regarded as one of Nascar's rising stars, will sport the Jordan 'Jumpman' logo on his firesuit and gloves, as well as on his shoes, although these will not be manufactured by Nike.

The length and value of the deal has not been released, although it is believed to have come about after Hamlin, who drives for Joe Gibbs Racing, struck up a friendship with Charlotte Bobcats owner Michael Jordan.

While Jordan himself is known to be a keen motorsport fan, the new deal represents the first time the Jordan brand has been involved in Nascar.

"It's a big deal for myself and really Nascar," Hamlin said during the preseason media tour at Daytona International Speedway. "The Jordan Brand has never been in Nascar before. It is a dream come true for me. To me the Jordan Brand represents excellence in sports."

"[Jordan]'s always been an avid motorsports fan. He just never knew the right situation to get into Nascar, and he felt like I was the right representative for him."

Commenting on the deal, Jordan said: "Denny's confidence and passion for racing along with his determination for excellence on the track make him a valuable addition to the Jordan brand. We look forward to working with Denny as he continues to take his success to the next level."

Souce: SportsPro