Nate Bargatze named Grand Marshal for 2026 DAYTONA 500

Daytona International Speedway announced that acclaimed comedian, actor, creator and best-selling touring artist Nate Bargatze (pictured) will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 68th running of the DAYTONA 500 on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The GRAMMY Award-winning (2026), #1 touring comedian in the world (2024 and 2025) and two-time Saturday Night Live host is now making the jump to the silver screen this spring with his first feature film. He created, co-wrote, produced, and stars in the family-friendly comedy “The Breadwinner” for TriStar Pictures, scheduled to be released theatrically on May 29, 2026. Starring opposite Bargatze is Mandy Moore and an incredible lineup of comedic actors including Colin Jost, Zach Cherry, Martin Herlihy, Kate Berlant, Kumail Nanjiani and Will Forte.

“The Breadwinner” is a family comedy that follows the misadventures of Nate Wilcox, whose wife Katie (Moore) lands a once-in-a-lifetime deal on “Shark Tank” that takes her on a prolonged business trip – and now the lifelong breadwinner has to fend for his family as a first-time stay-at-home dad. With three young daughters and little experience handling their day-to-day needs, Nate finds out quickly that running the household is the toughest gig he’s ever had.

Widely known as “The Nicest Man in Stand-Up,” Bargatze has become one of America’s most beloved comedic voices, selling out arenas nationwide and earning Grammy recognition. His clever, and wildly relatable storytelling has made him a favorite among fans of all ages—qualities that align perfectly with the excitement, tradition, and national spotlight of the DAYTONA 500.

“There is nothing quite like the anticipation of the DAYTONA 500 — the roar, the energy, the sense that something special is about to happen,” said Frank Kelleher, President of Daytona International Speedway. “Nate Bargatze’s nationwide popularity, family-friendly humor, and authenticity embody that same spirit with a style that resonates with all. He’ll bring a memorable spark to the command, amplifying the emotion and excitement of one of the biggest moments in motorsports.”

Bargatze is a record-breaking and chart-topping comedian both on the stage and screen. His most recent Netflix special, “Your Friend, Nate Bargatze,” is currently the most watched standup special on Netflix in the past 52 weeks. His “Big Dumb Eyes World Tour” set a record for biggest one-year gross by a comedy performer in history and has broken over 40 total arena attendance records.

In addition to giving the command to fire up the engines for the DAYTONA 500, Bargatze will also participate in a Fan Q&A session in the Hard Rock Bet Fanzone that morning. Details, including the time of his appearance, will be added to the Daytona International Speedway website when available.

Tickets are selling fast for the DAYTONA 500, NASCAR’s most prestigious event. Those wishing to attend in person should act quickly to book their experience for The Great American Race. Premium hospitality opportunities and Hard Rock Bet Fanzone/Pre-Race admissions are also available for purchase.

For ticket information on the DAYTONA 500, as well as all Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth events, log onto www.DAYTONA500.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP.