Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark will serve as grand marshal for Sunday's Indianapolis 500, race officials announced Tuesday. The 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year will deliver the iconic command for drivers to report to their cars before the 110th running at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Clark expressed excitement about representing Gainbridge and participating in 'The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.'

Clark's selection continues a tradition of Indiana sports legends serving as grand marshal, joining the ranks of Peyton Manning, Larry Bird, and Reggie Miller. The former Iowa star made history as the first overall WNBA draft pick after setting the NCAA career scoring record. Her presence adds star power to one of motorsports' most prestigious events, bridging basketball and auto racing audiences.

INDYCAR and IMS president J. Douglas Boles emphasized fan enthusiasm for Clark's involvement, calling it a 'bucket list global sporting spectacle.' The partnership with Gainbridge brings together two major Indiana sporting institutions. Clark's participation marks another milestone in her rapid rise from college sensation to professional standout, connecting her with the state's rich sporting heritage.

The grand marshal role traditionally involves giving the command 'Gentlemen, start your engines' or its modern equivalent before the race begins. Clark's appointment reflects her growing influence beyond basketball, making her the latest prominent Indiana athlete to take center stage at America's most famous auto race.