Comedian Nate Bargatze to Serve as Daytona 500 Grand Marshal

Kurt Russell named honorary pace car driver for NASCAR's biggest race

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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Comedian Nate Bargatze has been selected to serve as the Grand Marshal for the 68th running of the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. Meanwhile, actor Kurt Russell will drive the honorary pace car to kick off the event.

Why it matters

The Daytona 500 is one of the most prestigious and widely watched auto races in the world, making the Grand Marshal and pace car driver high-profile roles that generate significant media attention.

The details

Bargatze, known for his laidback comedy style, will give the command for drivers to start their engines before the start of the Daytona 500. Russell, who stars in the Apple TV series "Monarch: Legacy of Monsters," will lead the field of cars on the pace lap prior to the green flag.

  • The 68th Daytona 500 is scheduled for February 27, 2026.
  • Season 2 of Kurt Russell's "Monarch: Legacy of Monsters" series premieres on February 27, 2026.

The players

Nate Bargatze

A stand-up comedian known for his observational and deadpan comedy style.

Kurt Russell

An acclaimed actor who will serve as the honorary pace car driver for the Daytona 500.

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What they’re saying

“I'm honored to be the Grand Marshal for the Daytona 500. I can't wait to give the command for the drivers to start their engines and kick off the race.”

— Nate Bargatze, Comedian (wn.com)

“It's always a thrill to be part of the Daytona 500, and I'm excited to lead the field to the green flag in the pace car.”

— Kurt Russell (wn.com)

The takeaway

The Daytona 500 continues to attract high-profile celebrities to participate in the festivities, underscoring the race's status as one of the premier events in motorsports.