Indianapolis 500 names basketball star grand marshal: ‘I’m honored’
Race organizers made the announcement Tuesday.
Olivia Bennett 
The Indianapolis 500 has officially tapped WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark to serve as the grand marshal for this year’s race. Race organizers confirmed the selection of the two-time WNBA All-Star on Tuesday.
A Hoosier Tradition
Clark, who has become a household name since being drafted by the Indiana Fever, expressed her gratitude for the invitation to participate in one of the most iconic events in sports. “I’m honored to represent Gainbridge as grand marshal of the Indy 500,” Clark stated. “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.’”
Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles emphasized the excitement surrounding the pick. “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,” Boles said. “Caitlin will bring unique energy and presence to a quintessentially Hoosier experience and an absolutely bucket list global sporting spectacle.”
Rising Star
Clark’s resume continues to grow rapidly. As the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft and the league’s Rookie of the Year, she has already shattered multiple records, including the single-season assists mark. The former NCAA career scoring leader also made history recently by becoming the first player in WNBA history to record a second double-double consisting of 30 or more points and 10 or more assists.
Outside of basketball, Clark is becoming a regular in the crossover spotlight. Earlier this month, she joined country music star Morgan Wallen on the traditional walk during his “Still the Problem Tour.” Other notable figures, including former Alabama coach Nick Saban, have also joined Wallen during his tour stops.
Busy Schedule
The timing of the Indy 500 puts Clark in the middle of a packed WNBA slate. While the Fever played home games during race weekends in 2024 and last May, this week the team is focused on hosting the Portland Fire on Wednesday and Golden State on Friday before a short break.
Clark joins an elite list of celebrities who have held the grand marshal title, a group that includes former MLB stars Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez, singer Blake Shelton, and actors Dylan Sprouse and Stephanie Beatriz. 205focus.com will continue to provide updates as race day approaches.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
