Why is Nate Bargatze at the Daytona 500? Explaining comedian's 2026 grand marshal stint originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Daytona 500 is the highlight of the NASCAR season, as drivers compete to win the "Great American Race."
As a result, many celebrities will be on hand to witness the race in Daytona Beach, Florida. That includes famous comedian Nate Bargatze, who will serve the special role of grand marshal for the 2026 Daytona 500 on Sunday afternoon.
Bargatze is a standup comedian whose gained prominence in recent years, with appearances on several TV programs including "Saturday Night Live." Now, the Tennessee native will help start the Daytona 500 in his latest celebrity appearances.
Here's more about why Bargatze is at the Daytona 500.
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Why is Nate Bargatze at the Daytona 500?
The Daytona 500 chose Nate Bargatze to be the grand marshal for the 68th running of the 2026 race, which means the comedian will help start the race.
It is Bargatze's job to say "Drivers, start your engines!" right before the drivers take off to begin their race.
NAYTONA 500? NATESCAR?
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) February 11, 2026
Let's chat about those things at the #DAYTONA500 Sunday, @natebargatze! #TheBreadwinnerMoviepic.twitter.com/Aze3wmTljG
Usually, the grand marshal for the Daytona 500 is a special guest to help add to the ceremony for the "Great American Race." Last year, actor Anthony Mackie served as the grand marshal ahead of his new Captain America movie, and past grand marshals included Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Donald Trump, J.J. Watt and Dale Earnhardt Jr.
MORE: How much does the Daytona 500 winner win in 2026?
Daytona 500 start time
- Date: Sunday, February 15
- Time: 1:30 p.m. ET
The Daytona 500 is set to begin at 1:30 p.m. ET on February 15th, an hour earlier than initially scheduled. The race was moved up to try and avoid the rain, which is expected to begin later in the evening.