Michigan International Speedway announced today that Connor Hellebuyck will serve as the grand marshal for the FireKeepers Casino 400. The Michigan-native and 2026 Olympic Gold medal winner for the United States will deliver the most famous words in motorsports prior to the FireKeepers Casino 400 on Sunday, June 7.
“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,” said Joe Fowler, President of Michigan International Speedway. “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.”
Born and raised in Commerce Township, Michigan, Connor Hellebuyck just finished his 11th season with the Winnipeg Jets. The 33-year-old goalkeeper is a four-time all-star and three-time Vezina Trophy winner for best goalie in the National Hockey League. In 2025, Hellebuyck added the Hart Trophy to his collection after being named the league’s most valuable player.
Hellebuyck continued his dominant tear this year after earning the starting spot in net on the U.S. Olympic men’s hockey squad. Over six games, Hellebuyck halted an Olympic-leading 95.62% of shots on goal, including a remarkable 41 of 42 in the gold-medal match against Team Canada, the reigning and nine-time gold-medal winners.
His heroic performance led to the United States’ third ever gold medal in men’s hockey and first since the historic ‘Miracle on Ice’ game in 1980. The men’s final was the most viewed event of the 2026 Winter Olympics and immediately launched Team USA and Hellebuyck into stardom.
“Growing up in the Motor City, NASCAR has always been a part of my life thanks to my dad’s passion for the sport,” said Hellebuyck. “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 June race weekend at Michigan International Speedway begins with the ARCA Menards Series Henry Ford Health 200 on Friday, June 5, followed by the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series DQS Solutions & Staffing 250 Powered by Precision Vehicle Logistics on Saturday, June 6. The NASCAR Cup Series will cap off the weekend’s action with the FireKeepers Casino 400 on Sunday, June 7.
Fans can purchase tickets for the 2026 NASCAR race weekend at Michigan International Speedway at www.mispeedway.com.
— Michigan International Speedway —