The Brickyard 400 presented by PPG already holds significance in the NASCAR Cup Series schedule, but this year’s edition brings a twist that blends racing with childhood nostalgia. On Sunday, July 27, “Sesame Street’s” Cookie Monster will serve as the grand marshal at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. He’ll give the traditional command to start engines before NASCAR drivers take on the famed 2.5-mile oval, as part of Sesame Street’s new Road Trip Across America initiative.
Key Highlights
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Cookie Monster named grand marshal of Brickyard 400 on July 27.
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Will deliver the pre-race command to drivers at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
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Event launches Sesame Street’s “Road Trip Across America” campaign.
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Special reunion with NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace through a collaborative video.
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Live race coverage begins at 2 p.m. ET on TNT Sports.
A Furry Grand Marshal for a Big Day at Indy
The 2025 Brickyard 400 will feature Cookie Monster in a central role, giving the iconic “drivers, start your engines” command ahead of the race. It marks a playful yet meaningful collaboration between NASCAR and the long-running children’s program “Sesame Street.” This appearance isn’t just about fun—it’s the kickoff of a broader campaign designed to connect children and families across America.
“Bring the whole family out for a cookie break as we welcome ‘Sesame Street’s’ Cookie Monster to IMS for the Brickyard 400 presented by PPG on July 27. Following Cookie Monster’s command as grand marshal, everyone can enjoy exciting on-track action as the stars of NASCAR take on the iconic 2.5-mile oval. And remember, children under 15 are admitted free with the purchase of an adult Flex or General Admission ticket.” – J. Douglas Boles, President of INDYCAR and Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Cookie Monster’s involvement highlights a shared focus between IMS and Sesame Street on community, learning, and joy. The Brickyard 400 serves as the campaign’s opening event, with plenty of speed on track and heart off it.
A Road Trip With Purpose
Sesame Street’s “Road Trip Across America” campaign aims to celebrate diversity and deliver messages of kindness and togetherness, staying true to the show’s legacy since 1969. Cookie Monster’s role at the Brickyard 400 is only the first of many appearances across the country. From NASCAR to baseball and fairs, the tour will span multiple sporting and community events.
Aaron Bisman of Sesame Workshop emphasized the campaign’s mission and long-term vision.
“For over 55 years, Sesame Street has been reaching and teaching children across America. What better way to extend the laughter and learning than by bringing Sesame Street to where our young fans are — their hometowns? This summer, families will experience the joy of Sesame Street at state fairs, baseball games, and so much more.” – Aaron Bisman, Senior Vice President, Head of Marketing at Sesame Workshop
After the Brickyard 400, the tour will continue to other destinations, including a Sesame Street-themed event with the Milwaukee Brewers on July 25. The event will include in-stadium activities and character appearances.
Cookie Monster and NASCAR: Not the First Time
While Cookie Monster’s role this Sunday has generated attention, it’s far from the first collaboration between NASCAR and “Sesame Street.” In 1993, Elmo waved the green flag at Charlotte Motor Speedway. In 2014, The Great Gonzo took on grand marshal duties at the Auto Club 400. NASCAR has regularly welcomed characters from the Muppets and Sesame Street franchises, using those appearances to bring in new fans and family-friendly content.
This year, Cookie Monster’s participation is boosted by a meaningful cause—reaching families where they live and making learning mobile, joyful, and accessible. His reunion with Bubba Wallace also adds a personal touch. The two were featured in a video where Wallace helped launch Cookie Monster’s cross-country road trip, creating a symbolic tie between the NASCAR world and the Sesame Street message.
What Fans Can Expect This Weekend
The Brickyard 400 presented by PPG is set to go green at 2 p.m. ET on Sunday. The event will be broadcast live on TNT Sports, with radio coverage on the NASCAR Radio Network. Fans in attendance will experience the roar of Cup Series engines and the charm of a blue, cookie-loving puppet all in one day.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s inclusion of Cookie Monster is not just a marketing play—it’s a celebration of community, curiosity, and bringing fans of all ages together. For many longtime attendees, it’ll be another memorable chapter at the Brickyard. For younger fans, it might just be their first lasting racing memory.
With strong Cup Series storylines already in play heading into the Brickyard, this pre-race celebration adds another layer to an already anticipated event.
News in Brief: 2025 Brickyard 400 Grand Marshal
“Sesame Street’s” Cookie Monster has been named grand marshal of the 2025 Brickyard 400 presented by PPG, scheduled for Sunday, July 27 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. As grand marshal, he’ll give the “drivers, start your engines” command ahead of the Cup Series race. The event marks the kickoff of Sesame Street’s “Road Trip Across America,” promoting kindness and learning. Bubba Wallace and Cookie Monster reconnected through a special video as part of the campaign. Coverage of the race begins at 2 p.m. ET on TNT Sports.
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