Pacers Star Pascal Siakam Named Honorary Pace Car Driver for Brickyard 400 at IMS
All-NBA Forward to Lead the Field at One of Racing’s Most Iconic Events
INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana’s love for basketball and motorsports is getting a high-octane crossover this year.
Pascal Siakam, the Indiana Pacers’ dynamic forward and three-time All-Star, will serve as the honorary pace car driver for the 2025 Brickyard 400 at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS). The announcement marks a special moment where hoops meets horsepower, and it places Siakam front and center at one of the most historic venues in racing.
Set to take place on Sunday, August 10, the Brickyard 400 is one of NASCAR’s crown jewel events. And now, the heart of the Pacers lineup will help kick things off in style—behind the wheel of the pace car.
From the Hardwood to the Brickyard
Siakam’s selection as honorary pace car driver is both a nod to his rising status in Indiana sports and a celebration of his incredible journey. Since being acquired by the Pacers in a blockbuster trade with Toronto, the 6-foot-9 forward has quickly become a fan favorite in Indianapolis. His energy, leadership, and passion for the game mirror the intensity Hoosiers bring to both basketball and racing.
“It’s an incredible honor to be part of something as historic as the Brickyard 400,” said Siakam. “The fans in Indiana have shown me so much love since I got here, and I’m excited to be involved in another tradition that means so much to the state.”
While Siakam is best known for his graceful footwork on the court, he’ll be trading sneakers for speed when he leads the field to green at IMS. He’ll be piloting the official pace car, a specially outfitted Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, bringing NASCAR’s best to the line before the thunder of engines takes over the track.
A Champion’s Resume
Before donning the pace car uniform, Siakam has already made his mark as one of the NBA’s premier forwards. He is a three-time NBA All-Star and a two-time All-NBA selection, earning recognition as one of the league’s most versatile and relentless players.
Originally from Cameroon, Siakam’s story is the stuff of inspiration. From learning the game late in life to becoming a champion with the Toronto Raptors in 2019, he’s a testament to hard work and determination. Since joining the Pacers, he’s brought playoff intensity and veteran leadership to a young, talented team.
“Pascal has been everything we hoped for and more,” said Pacers President of Basketball Operations Kevin Pritchard. “He embodies the competitive spirit that defines Indiana. It’s fitting that he’ll represent us at the Brickyard, another Indiana tradition built on excellence.”
Where Tradition Meets Community
The Brickyard 400 has long been one of NASCAR’s most prestigious races, and Indiana fans take pride in its deep connection to the state’s racing heritage. By choosing Siakam as the honorary pace car driver, IMS is embracing the full scope of Indiana’s sports culture—recognizing the shared passion, discipline, and drive it takes to succeed on any stage.
“For decades, the Brickyard has brought people together to celebrate speed, skill, and tradition,” said IMS President J. Douglas Boles. “Pascal Siakam represents the next generation of Indiana greatness. We’re thrilled to have him lead the field and help unite two iconic Hoosier passions: basketball and racing.”
The Brickyard 400 will feature top NASCAR stars competing on the historic 2.5-mile oval at IMS, a track more commonly associated with the Indy 500. The event draws tens of thousands of fans from across the country, and this year’s edition promises to be one of the most electric yet—with Siakam helping to set the tone.
A Day to Remember for Indiana Sports Fans
For fans of the Pacers, the NBA, or NASCAR, August 10 is shaping up to be a must-watch event. Seeing Pascal Siakam behind the wheel, soaking in the cheers of a passionate Indiana crowd, will be a highlight for the city and for Siakam himself.
Whether it’s driving the lane or driving the pace car, Siakam continues to show that he belongs among Indiana’s elite. From Cameroon to Canada to the Circle City—and now to the Brickyard—his journey continues to inspire.
And for Indiana fans, it’s just another reason to c
