The Mystery of Daytona USA's Billboard: Damon Hill or Todd McFarlane’s Eyes?

Decades after its release, Daytona USA continues to hold a special place in the pantheon of Sega arcade classics.

Boasting impressive visuals, dynamic gameplay, and an iconic soundtrack, Daytona USA was originally launched for arcades in 1994 before making its way to various home platforms, including Sega Saturn and later re-releases.

Throughout its history, the title has been synonymous with vibrant imagery – but few elements are as memorable, or as mysterious, as the enigmatic pair of eyes staring out from a raceway billboard featured in the game. The enduring question among fans and historians alike revolves around the true identity of those eyes.

Speculation sparked recently when a social media post reignited debate: do the eyes on Daytona USA's billboard actually belong to Formula One world champion Damon Hill, or could they be based on acclaimed comic book artist Todd McFarlane? There is a compelling argument for Damon Hill.

Social media users often point to Sega’s partnership with the Williams F1 team, for which Hill raced in the early 1990s.

The Japanese gaming giant's sponsorship ties to Hill’s team provide a plausible connection, and the likeness on the billboard certainly bears his distinguished features.

In the words of many gaming fans, the eyes resemble Hill’s own, suggesting a subtle nod to this earlier alliance between Sega and the motorsport icon. However, Ashley Day — a contributor to Time Extension with a keen eye for the details of gaming history — introduced a fresh perspective.

Day noted a striking similarity between the billboard image and Todd McFarlane’s famously intense 'Blue Steel' gaze, referencing the comic book creator's characteristic pose.

According to Day, the visual parallel is so strong that it raises the possibility that a Sega artist may have drawn inspiration from McFarlane’s unmistakable expression during production. Despite ongoing discourse and comparisons, Sega has not released an official statement clarifying the true inspiration behind the artwork, leaving fans to continue debating the origins of the iconic piercing stare.

What is certain is that Daytona USA remains a hallmark of arcade racing, and its mysterious billboard only adds another layer of intrigue to Sega's celebrated title. Daytona USA is still celebrated today, with classic re-releases appearing on platforms such as the Sega Ages line and through digital storefronts like the Nintendo eShop.

The game’s unique quirks — from memorable soundbites to hidden visual references — remain a testament to Sega’s lasting influence on arcade and home console gaming. Whether the eyes belong to Damon Hill, Todd McFarlane, or another muse altogether, the mystery persists as a charming slice of video game history.

For now, Daytona USA’s billboard endures as a conversation-starter for fans of Sega’s legacy and the ever-evolving world of gaming culture.

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