The iconic pre-race tradition continues with a Grammy-nominated artist taking the mic before the green flag drops at the Brickyard.

Who is singing the national anthem at the 2025 Indy 500?

The Indianapolis 500 is never just about the racing. Sure, the cars are loud, the milk is cold, and the drama is high. But before engines fire and 300,000 fans settle in for what is said to be the greatest spectacle in racing, the national anthem remains one of the weekend’s most anticipated rituals.
This year’s race, set for Sunday, May 25, promises the usual thunder on track—plus a strong voice off it. In keeping with the event’s patriotic tradition, organizers have brought in a seasoned artist with serious vocal firepower to deliver The Star-Spangled Banner just before the green flag waves.
2025 national anthem singer assigned
Previous years have seen pop stars, country icons, and even Broadway leads take the mic. But this year’s choice stands out for her crossover appeal and commanding stage presence.
Natalie Grant, a nine-time Grammy Award nominee and one of contemporary Christian music’s most powerful vocalists, will headline the race preamble. The announcement was made by the race’s organizers earlier this week, with Grant confirming her appearance on social media.
This one will hit you right in your feels. 🥹🇺🇸
— Indianapolis Motor Speedway (@IMS) May 21, 2025
Nine-time Grammy nominee @NatalieGrant will perform the national anthem before the start of Sunday's #Indy500 presented by @GainbridgeSport!#ThisIsMay | #INDYCAR pic.twitter.com/lXHL26hL3Z
It won’t be her first time performing under pressure. Grant has sung at national sporting events before, including NFL games and college football championships.
Millions will be tuning in from afar while about 300,000 will be in situ at the Brickyard, all standing proudly for Grant’s performance.
What is the Indy 500 flyover in 2025?
Following the anthem, as the engines roar to life and the 109th Indy 500 officially begins, fans at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway will look skyward for a special Memorial Day Weekend tribute to the United States Army.
In honor of the Army’s 250th birthday, two Apache helicopters will soar above the track during the race’s first pace lap – a moment being billed as the ’Pace Lap for America.’ This adds a certain ceremonial weight to the festivities on the back of Grant’s efforts, setting an even more patriotic tone before the race for the checkered flag begins.
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