Dale Earnhardt Jr. to drive pace car at this year’s Brickyard 400

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Racing legend and NASCAR icon Dale Earnhardt Jr. will drive the pace car at this year’s Brickyard 400.

The 25th Running of the Big Machine Vodka 400 at the Brickyard kicks off Sunday, September 9 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. 

Earnhardt released a statement following the announcement:

I am honored that Chevrolet asked me to drive the Camaro ZL1 Pace Car in one of the biggest races of the year. The fan in me was already looking forward to this event. It’s a big race. There is a lot at stake since it’s the final chance for the teams and drivers to make the Playoffs. So, I hope to do a good job leading the field to the green flag, but I can promise you I’ll soak in every minute and enjoy the Brickyard in a way I never have before.

Earnhardt Jr. participated in the race from 2000 – 2017, with his best finish coming in fourth place in 2012.

Earnhardt Jr. will drive a 2018 Camaro ZL1 around the track that can reach 60 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds.