Full Breakdown
Caitlin Clark Named Grand Marshal for the 110th Indianapolis 500
5/19/2026, 11:29:50 PM
Announcement
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway announced on Tuesday, May 19, that Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark will serve as grand marshal for the 110th Indianapolis 500. Clark will give the traditional “drivers, start your engines” command during pre-race ceremonies on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the world’s largest single-day spectator event.
Indy 500 Tradition and Clark’s Rise
Since 1909 the Indy 500 has featured high-profile grand marshals, including Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Dylan Sprouse, Blake Shelton, Tamika Catchings and former President Gerald Ford. Clark’s selection continues this lineage, linking Indiana’s basketball heritage with its motorsports legacy. The former Iowa star became the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer before being chosen No. 1 overall in the 2024 WNBA draft.
Timeline
The announcement came on May 19, 2026; pre-race ceremonies start at 10 a.m. ET on May 24, with the green flag at 12:45 p.m. ET after Clark’s engine-start command.
Clark’s Athletic Highlights
Clark entered the WNBA as the No. 1 pick for the Indiana Fever in 2024, earned Rookie of the Year, made the All-WNBA First Team, and is a two-time All-Star. She holds the NCAA career points record and is the first player with multiple 30-point, 10-assist games. She has been a Gainbridge brand ambassador since her senior year at Iowa.
Impact
Clark’s appointment highlights the crossover between women’s basketball and marquee events, boosting WNBA visibility and reinforcing Indiana’s sports brand. Gainbridge, the Indy 500 presenting partner since 2019, leverages her marketability.
Official Statements
Clark said she is honored to represent Gainbridge and excited to join “the greatest spectacle in racing.” INDYCAR and IMS President J. Douglas Boles praised fan enthusiasm and Clark’s energy. Gainbridge President Derek Towriss said the partnership aligns with its Indiana roots. Fever coach Stephanie White called the role a top honor for an Indiana athlete.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I'm honored to represent Gainbridge as Grand Marshal of the Indy 500,” — Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever guard
- “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.’” — Caitlin Clark
- “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,” — J. Douglas Boles, President, INDYCAR & IMS
- “Indianapolis is at the center of what we do at Gainbridge,” — Derek Towriss, President, Gainbridge
Race Day Preview
During FOX’s live broadcast, Clark will step onto the track, issue the engine-start command, and join the opening of a race that draws millions worldwide.
