Indiana football’s win in the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship Game led to celebrations across the state and recognition from local figures like Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, government officials and more.

The state is looking to celebrate the 2025 Hoosiers even more over the next few months with ideas brewing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway ahead of the 2026 Indianapolis 500. Doug Boles, the president 0f both IndyCar and IMS, was asked if there are plans for head coach Curt Cignetti to be a dignitary for this year’s race.

Here’s his response:

There’s something in the works for sure for the Hoosiers to be represented at this year’s race, as Boles said. It wouldn’t be the first crossover between IndyCar and Indiana football, with members of the 2025 roster stopping by Chip Ganassi Racing’s garages ahead of the 2025 race. CGR star Alex Palou went onto win 2025’s running of the Indy 500 and paid a visit to Memorial Stadium for Indiana’s game against UCLA:

It seems it takes one to know one with champions.