The FireKeepers Casino 400 will have a hometown touch before engines fire Sunday at Michigan International Speedway.
Michigan native Connor Hellebuyck, one of hockey’s most accomplished goaltenders, has been named grand marshal for NASCAR’s Cup Series race weekend at the two-mile oval. The announcement was made by Michigan International Speedway on June 2.
Hellebuyck, who was born and raised in Commerce Township, Michigan, will deliver the traditional command for drivers to start their engines before Sunday’s FireKeepers Casino 400.
“It’s an honor to have Connor Hellebuyck serve as our grand marshal for what will be another incredible weekend of racing in the Irish Hills,” Michigan International Speedway President Joe Fowler said in a statement. “Connor’s championship pedigree and competitiveness embody everything we love about Michigan. His command will be a special moment and our fans will be ready to welcome back a hometown hero.”
The 33-year-old recently completed his 11th season with the Winnipeg Jets and continues to build one of the most decorated resumes in professional hockey. Hellebuyck is a four-time NHL All-Star, a three-time Vezina Trophy winner, and captured the Hart Trophy in 2025 after being named the league’s most valuable player.
The veteran goaltender also helped lead Team USA to Olympic gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics, adding another milestone to a career that has already established him among the sport’s elite players.
Hellebuyck Has Longstanding Connection to Michigan
While his success has taken him to the NHL and the international stage, Hellebuyck’s roots remain firmly planted in Michigan.
“Growing up in the Motor City, NASCAR has always been a part of my life thanks to my dad’s passion for the sport,” Hellebuyck said. “That love rubbed off on me early, and it’s an incredible honor to serve as grand marshal for the FireKeepers Casino 400 and help kick off this exciting weekend at Michigan International Speedway.”
The selection continues a long tradition of Michigan International Speedway featuring prominent figures with strong ties to the state during race weekend festivities.
Michigan’s NASCAR weekend begins Friday with the ARCA Menards Series Henry Ford Health 200. The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series follows Saturday with the DQS Solutions & Staffing 250 Powered by Precision Vehicle Logistics, while the NASCAR Cup Series takes center stage Sunday for the FireKeepers Casino 400.
With one of Michigan’s most recognizable athletes delivering the command before the green flag, the weekend will feature a fitting hometown connection at one of NASCAR’s fastest tracks.
