IndyCar driver Ed Carpenter is gearing up for his 23rd Indianapolis 500 race. Carpenter expresses confidence in both his team and his car as the big day approaches. Apart from being a driver, Carpenter is also a co-owner in racing. He looks forward to the Freedom 250 Grand Prix happening in Washington D.C. this August. This event promises to showcase IndyCar racing to a broad audience.
In a unique twist, the honor of driving the pace car for the Indianapolis 500 goes to Curt Cignetti, the popular head football coach of the Indiana Hoosiers. Driving the pace car is a coveted role. Unlike a ceremonial first pitch that doesn’t influence the game, a pace car driver plays a vital role in the race. The driver needs to maintain the correct speed to ensure that the race cars can safely bring their tires to optimal temperature.
Indiana Hoosiers head coach Curt Cignetti was seen celebrating after a win against the Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Jan. 19, 2026.
Cignetti will be behind the wheel of a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X for the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500 as the pace car driver. This car boasts a 5.5L twin-turbo V8 engine delivering over 1,000 hp to the rear wheels, complemented by an electric motor adding another 186 hp to the front axle. The car features an impressive America 250 paint scheme.
Getting ready for the event, Cignetti received guidance from Sarah Fisher, a former IndyCar driver with nine Indianapolis 500 appearances. Fisher also has experience as a pace car driver, making her a valuable mentor.
Matthew Reigle writes for OutKick, contributing coverage and commentary on various sporting events.