Michael Strahan to Pilot Pace Car at the 109th Indianapolis 500

INDIANAPOLIS — Pro Football Hall of Famer Michael Strahan is set to drive the honorary Pace Car at the 109th Indianapolis 500 in 2025. This prestigious event will see Strahan join a notable lineup of sports legends, including Ken Griffey Jr. and Tyrese Haliburton, who have also taken on the role of Pace Car drivers in recent years.

“Michael is an impressive addition to the lineup of all-star athletes and celebrities to serve as honorary Pace Car driver for the Indianapolis 500,” said IMS President J. Douglas Boles. “From the gridiron to the broadcast studio, Michael is no stranger to leading a fast-paced field. As we kick off a new era of INDYCAR and the Indy 500 on FOX, Michael will have one of the best seats in the house for the start of the world’s greatest race.”

Strahan enjoyed a remarkable NFL career, playing 15 seasons with the New York Giants. He was named Defensive Player of the Year in 2001 and earned seven Pro Bowl selections along with four All-Pro honors. Additionally, he capped his football journey by winning Super Bowl XLII in his final season.

A member of the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame, Strahan will pilot a powerful 1,064-horsepower Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 coupe as he leads off this iconic race. The Corvette boasts an impressive top speed of 233 miles per hour.

The Indianapolis 500 has also seen other celebrated drivers take on this role recently, including Morgan Freeman, Robin Roberts, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, and Patrick Dempsey.

This year's race promises excitement as Josef Newgarden aims for his third consecutive win—a feat never achieved in Indianapolis 500 history. Mark your calendars: The “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” will take place on Sunday, May 25 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.