Brad Pitt Joins Bass Pro Shops Night Race as Grand Marshal

Pitt will share the spotlight with Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris, a fellow native of Springfield, Missouri. The duo will oversee the pre-race ceremonies, culminating in the command to fire engines for the third race of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Chase. The event serves as a platform to honor military veterans, first responders, and community heroes, themes that align with the narrative of Pitt's new film, directed by David Ayer.

In Heart of the Beast, Pitt portrays Special Forces officer James Belmont, who navigates the Alaskan wilderness alongside his combat dog after a plane crash. The film, which also features J.K. Simmons and Anna Lambe, explores themes of resilience and loyalty. At the track, the intensity will mirror the cinematic stakes, as drivers navigate the 0.533-mile concrete oval during a critical juncture in the championship season.