CONCORD, N.C. – Indianapolis Motor Speedway has always held a special place in Jeff Gordon’s heart.
From winning the very first Brickyard 400 at the track in 1994, to kissing the bricks four more times throughout his career en route to becoming the winningest NASCAR Cup Series driver at the track, he’s had plenty of great memories in Indianapolis.
This July, he’ll add one more.
Gordon is set to lead the field to the start of the 24th annual Brickyard 400 behind the wheel of the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 pace car.
“It’s hard to believe this is the 24th running of the Brickyard 400,” Gordon said. “This has been a very special race over the years – for me and NASCAR. Winning at the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway was a dream of mine as a kid. I'm excited to lead the field to green at this year’s Brickyard 400, and I appreciate Doug Boles and Chevrolet for giving me this opportunity.”
Gordon has piloted the pace car at Indy before – in 2015, he led the Indianapolis 500 field to the green flag before flying back to Charlotte Motor Speedway to compete in the 600-mile race.
And he’ll be familiar with his ride.
He drove the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 pace car earlier this season at the Daytona 500 before returning to his duties in the FOX Sports broadcast booth.
It will mark Gordon’s first time on the track at Indianapolis since filling in for Dale Earnhardt Jr. as a substitute driver of the No. 88 Chevrolet SS last year.
“Jeff Gordon is one of the greatest drivers to ever compete at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and we’re honored to welcome him back to pace the 24th annual Brickyard 400,” said J. Douglas Boles, Indianapolis Motor Speedway president.
“It’s only fitting Jeff will be out front and leading, a place where the fans of this great race are accustomed to seeing him.”
The Brickyard 400 is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, July 22.