#Daybreak8: Michael Strahan to drive Pace Car at 109th Indianapolis 500. More on @WISHNews8. https://t.co/WAHdU0acPq pic.twitter.com/ftXIt6yBqN

— Jeremy Jenkins (@JeremyWishTV) November 25, 2024

Gap-Pa’s journey from football legend to TV personality has been remarkable. He shines through with his wit and knowledge of the game. With FOX Sports at the helm, eager to bring in fresh faces and personalities, Strahan’s role adds a unique element to the race’s tradition of celebrity pace car drivers.

Morgan Freeman, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Robin Roberts, and Ken Griffey Jr. are among many greats who adorned the coveted role. Gap-Pa’s history of leadership on and off the field makes him a fitting choice, no doubt. The Corvette ZR1 is a fitting choice too. It boasts a 1,064-horsepower engine with a top speed of 233 mph. Yet Strahan has always been up for a challenge and never shied away from leading the way.

Strahan takes on the Indy 500: humor meets speed

Michael Strahan’s career achievements are unforgettable, as are his banters on FOX NFL Sunday. This Sunday, Strahan humorously warned co-host Jay Glazer to “watch yourself” as they previewed the Dallas Cowboys’ victory over the Washington Commanders. The exchange came when Glazer assumed the role of quarterback Jayden Daniels, while Strahan adopted the defensive end stance. “You’re lucky it’s your birthday,” Glazer shot back with a laugh. Strahan’s ability to blend humor with football insight continues to captivate viewers. But what about the Indy 500?

All jokes aside, the Corvette ZR1 is a beast in its own right. Gap-Pa’s excitement about his ride is clear. “This is my ride, right here. I’m going to drive the Pace Car,” he said. As co-host and fellow Pro Football Hall of Famer Howie Long joked that Strahan should drive the car back to New York at 200 mph. Strahan responded with a laugh, “You just gave away my plan… Going over 200 miles an hour, it’s going to be hard for them to catch me.”

Strahan has always been known for his larger-than-life presence. “Michael is an impressive addition to the lineup,” said IMS President J. Douglas Boles. He praised Strahan for his experience in both football and broadcasting.

As the pace car driver, the former Giants‘ DE will hold a key position at the start of the race, leading 33 drivers to the green flag. The responsibility is massive. At the end of the day, Strahan’s role in the 2025 Indianapolis 500 is about adding star power to one of the biggest events in racing. And the fans are excited to see how he handles the Corvette and if his size becomes a factor.