INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Caitlin Clark has been selected as the grand marshal for the Indianapolis 500, a prestigious role she will fulfill this Sunday.
The two-time WNBA All-Star’s participation comes after previous scheduling conflicts due to her basketball commitments.
The announcement was made by race organizers on Tuesday. Clark, who plays for the Indiana Fever, had been unable to attend race week events in the past due to games, but this week her team faces the Portland Fire and the Golden State team before a six-day break, allowing her to take part in the iconic event.
Caitlin Clark’s Impact on Women’s Basketball
Clark has significantly influenced women’s basketball at both the collegiate and professional levels, drawing sellout crowds and prompting some teams to relocate games to larger venues. She was the WNBA’s first overall draft pick in 2024 and won the Rookie of the Year Award that same year, setting multiple records including the highest assists in a single season.
Clark’s Achievements and Recognition
In addition to her WNBA accolades, Clark holds the NCAA career scoring title and made history as the first WNBA player to achieve two double-doubles with 30 or more points and 10 or more assists. Earlier this year, she was named the MVP of the 2026 FIBA World Cup Qualifying Tournament, marking a successful return from an injury-laden season.
Previous Grand Marshals and Current Sponsorship
Clark joins a distinguished group of grand marshals that includes celebrities like Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, and Blake Shelton. Doug Boles, President of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, remarked on the excitement surrounding her role, noting that fans have long wished to celebrate the Indy 500 alongside Clark.
Since her college years, Clark has served as a brand ambassador for Gainbridge, a sponsor of the race that also holds naming rights to the Fever’s arena. She is currently featured in a new advertising campaign for the company.
Clarification on Starting Command
It is important to note that while Clark will be participating in the ceremony, she will not be giving the traditional starting command; that honor will go to Roger Penske. Instead, Clark will be directing drivers to their vehicles.