WNBA star Caitlin Clark to serve as Grand Marshal for the Indy 500

Caitlin Clark is a superstar in the WNBA (Women's National Basketball Association), and the 24-year-old will play an important role in the pre-race ceremonies for the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.

As grand marshal, Clark will give the traditional command for drivers to report to their cars.

"I'm honored to represent Gainbridge as grand marshal of the Indy 500,” said Clark in a release from the speedway. “I’m looking forward to experiencing an iconic piece of what makes Indiana so special and being part of the time-honored tradition of ‘The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.’"

Clark was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft by the Indiana Fever, and finished her rookie season by breaking multiple records, including the all-time WNBA assists record. She earned WNBA Rookie of the Year and was named All-WNBA First Team. And that's just scratching the surface of her many accomplishments. 

“Since being drafted by the Fever, fans have been clamoring to share the epic celebration and thrilling excitement of Indy 500 Race Day with Caitlin,” INDYCAR and IMS President J. Douglas Boles said. “Through our incredible partnership with Gainbridge, everyone joining us for the world’s largest single-day spectator sporting event will get to do just that. Caitlin will bring unique energy and presence to a quintessentially Hoosier experience and an absolutely bucket list global sporting spectacle.”

Additionally, Academy Award-winning actor Brendan Fraser will wave the green flag as the honorary starter for the race.