A major name from the music world is headed to Talladega Superspeedway.
Talladega officials announced on April 21 that Zac Brown — a three-time Grammy Award winner and lead singer of the Zac Brown Band — will serve as grand marshal for the Jack Link’s 500.
Brown will be joined by Jack Link’s CEO Troy Link, who has been named the honorary starter for the race.
“Zac and his music have a way of bringing people together — and that same energy and passion that define his performances also define what Talladega Superspeedway is about,” Talladega Superspeedway President Brian Harris said in a statement. “Whether it’s on stage or on the high banks, it’s all about unforgettable moments, and we can’t wait for Zac to help fire up the crowd and get this race started in true Talladega style.”
Zac Brown Adds Star Power to Talladega Weekend
GettyZac Brown of the Zac Brown Band performs during a live show.
Brown has spent more than two decades building one of the most recognizable brands in country music, with hits like “Chicken Fried,” “Toes,” and “Free.” His latest album, The Comeback, highlights his range as both a performer and songwriter.
Beyond music, Brown has expanded into business and philanthropy, with ventures spanning food, fashion, and hospitality.
In 2011, he founded Camp Southern Ground, a summer camp designed for children of all backgrounds, including those with neurodiverse needs. The organization has since grown into a year-round program, including initiatives that support veterans transitioning to civilian life.
His presence adds another layer of star power to one of NASCAR’s most anticipated race weekends.
Grand Marshal Role Carries Iconic Responsibility
As grand marshal, Brown will deliver the most famous words in motorsports, officially giving drivers the command to start engines ahead of the Jack Link’s 500.
Serving as honorary starter, Troy Link will wave the green flag as the field charges toward Turn 1 at one of the fastest tracks on the NASCAR schedule.
Talladega Superspeedway is known for its pack racing, dramatic finishes, and unpredictability, making it a staple on the NASCAR calendar.
Talladega Weekend Set for Full Slate of Racing
GettyA general view of racing during a NASCAR Cup Series event at Talladega Superspeedway.
The Jack Link’s 500 headlines a full weekend of on-track action at Talladega Superspeedway.
On Saturday, April 25, the ARCA Menards Series will take the track, followed by the NASCAR O’Reilly Series race later in the day.
The weekend culminates Sunday, April 26, when the NASCAR Cup Series takes the green flag for the Jack Link’s 500 at 3:00 p.m. ET.
With a Grammy-winning artist set to deliver the command and one of NASCAR’s most unpredictable venues in play, Talladega is once again positioned to deliver a must-watch race weekend.
Grammy-Winning Star Named Grand Marshal for Jack Link’s 500