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Indianapolis 500 Makes Fun Rob Gronkowski Announcement

Originally posted on The Spun | By Matt Hladik | Last updated Apr 16, 2025 3:17 PM ET

Former NFL star Rob Gronkowski will have a major role at the upcoming Indianapolis 500.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway announced Wednesday that Gronkowski will serve as grand marshal of the Indy 500 Coors Light Snake Pit on Sunday, May 25. The job definitely appears to suit the fun-loving Gronkowski, as the Snake Pit is referred to as "one of the most unique parties on the global EDM music scene," with a lineup of major DJs and EDM performers lined up.

“I can’t wait for this year’s Indianapolis 500 on FOX,” Gronkowski said in a news release. “Not only do I get to attend my first-ever Indy 500, I’ll do it in style as the grand marshal of the legendary Indy 500 Coors Light Snake Pit. This is one of the coolest combinations of sports and music out there and in the ultimate venue. I’m ready to get the party started and celebrate the biggest race in the world.”

Gronkowski is the second member of the NFL on FOX to secure a job at this year's Indianapolis 500. Michael Strahan will serve as the honorary pace car driver at the Racing Capital of the World, leading the field in the 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 coupe.

"I know it's a great car," Strahan said back in November. "I got all the drivers behind me because I'm leading the pace. I'm gonna see if they can keep up."

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 16: Rob Gronkowski sings the national anthem prior to the game between the UCLA Bruins and the Boise State Broncos during the Starco Brands LA Bowl Hosted by Gronk at SoFi Stadium on December 16, 2023 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images

A five-time Pro Bowler and four-time Super Bowl champion during his career with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Gronkowski last played in the NFL during the 2021 season.

There were rumors earlier this offseason about a potential comeback for the future Hall of Fame tight end, but Gronkowski squashed them

“Crazy bro. They must know something about me that I don’t," he told NFL insider Jordan Schultz in February. "I wish I still had those powers, because that would be cool if I did. But I was just in Australia for a few days. Now it’s time to relax a little. No football.”

The 2025 Indianapolis 500 is set for 12:30 p.m. ET on May 25 on FOX.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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