It just seems like a given that the new 2023 Corvette Z06 would wind up leading the pack around the Brickyard this Memorial Day. A Chevrolet product has found itself in the lead at the beginning of the big race an amazing 33 times since the brand first paced the race in 1948.

The 19^th Time

Corvette’s long tradition with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway began in 1978 with the silver and black Indianapolis Pace Car that started a fervor when it was first introduced. Since then, Corvette has paced the Indy 500 race more than any other nameplate, this year being the 19^th time.

This year’s race will see 33 drivers vying for the top spot on the podium when the green flag goes out. Driving duties for this year’s pace car is a veteran INDYCAR Series driver and former team owner, Sara Fisher, who still holds the title of the fastest woman in Indianapolis 500 history.

Fisher started “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” nine times between 2000 and 2010, a record for female drivers. Her fastest four-lap qualifying speed of 229.439 mph in 2002 also remains an event record for a female driver. Sarah will be driving a specially prepped 2023 Corvette Z06 70^th Anniversary Edition Pace Car for the 106^th running of the prestigious race.

“I am humbled and proud to become the official Pace Car driver for the 106th Indianapolis 500,” Sarah stated. “And to represent the hard work and development that Chevrolet puts into these fantastic pieces of automobile advancement and technology.”

The 1978 Chevrolet Corvette Indy 500 Pace Car was the first Corvette to pace the iconic race. These cars became an instant sensation, causing Chevrolet to commit to manufacturing 6,502 units. Initially, only 300 units were planned, however, demand was such that Chevrolet built one for each of its dealerships.

The New Corvette Z06

Of course, the Z06 is powered by that high-strung 5.5L LT6 engine, making 670 horsepower. The car is also equipped with the Z07 Performance Package featuring a carbon fiber rear wing, aerodynamic ground effects, carbon-ceramic brakes and as a nod to Corvette’s 70-year history, the Pace Car is adorned with the 70^th Anniversary Edition Z06 livery. Chevrolet’s design studio created a special asymmetric strip package specifically for the Pace Car that draws inspiration from the 70^th Anniversary Edition’s badging.

This year’s running of the Indy 500 will be held on Sunday, May 29, 2022. Enthusiasts can purchase tickets or get updates and info at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway website.