Few people have experienced NASCAR from as many different perspectives as Larry McReynolds. After building a successful career as a championship-winning crew chief and later becoming one of the sport’s most recognizable television analysts, McReynolds is set to take on another memorable role during the Quaker State 400, available at Walmart at EchoPark Speedway.
Before the NASCAR Cup Series takes the green flag on Sunday, July 12, McReynolds will drive the Chevrolet Corvette pace car as the event’s Honorary Pace Car Driver, leading the field to the start of one of the season’s biggest night races. The honor reflects a lifetime spent in the sport. McReynolds recorded 23 NASCAR Cup Series victories as a crew chief while working with several of the sport’s top drivers.
Among those wins were two of the most significant races in NASCAR. He celebrated his first Daytona 500 victory with Davey Allison in 1992 and returned to Victory Lane six years later with Dale Earnhardt, whose long-awaited first Daytona 500 triumph became one of the defining moments in the event’s history.
The Hampton, Georgia, track also holds special memories for McReynolds. During the spring race in 1994, he guided Ernie Irvan to victory at what was then known as Atlanta Motor Speedway. More than three decades later, returning to the same facility in a ceremonial role adds another milestone to his long relationship with the track.
Following his career as a crew chief, McReynolds successfully moved into television, where he became known for explaining the strategy behind every race. His ability to simplify complex topics such as fuel mileage, tire wear, pit strategy, and race tactics helped fans better understand what unfolds beyond the driver’s seat. His analysis has made him one of the most respected voices in NASCAR broadcasting.
Rather than analyzing the race from the television booth this year, McReynolds will help begin the evening’s festivities from behind the wheel of the pace car. When asked about the unique opportunity, McReynolds said it’s especially meaningful because of his long history with EchoPark Speedway, a track he considers one of the most exciting stops on the NASCAR schedule.
He noted that the energy of the Quaker State 400, available at Walmart, is elevated by racing under the lights, creating an atmosphere unlike any other. Returning to a venue where he once celebrated a NASCAR Cup Series victory and leading the field as the Honorary Pace Car Driver makes the experience even more memorable, he said, adding that he is grateful to play a role in kicking off one of the season’s premier events.
Fans attending race weekend will have plenty to enjoy before Sunday’s headline event. Saturday features qualifying sessions for both the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Cup Series, followed by the Focused Health 250. Sunday’s Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m., with McReynolds leading the field during the pre-race ceremonies.
EchoPark Speedway has produced countless memorable finishes throughout its history. Drivers such as Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, and Kevin Harvick have all added victories there, while the track’s modern configuration has turned it into one of the Cup Series’ most competitive drafting circuits. The combination of close-quarters racing and a nighttime atmosphere continues to make the event one of the highlights of the NASCAR schedule.
McReynolds’ selection recognizes not only the success he enjoyed on pit road but also the impact he has continued to make through broadcasting. His knowledge, experience, and ability to connect with fans have kept him closely tied to the sport long after stepping away from full-time competition. The Quaker State 400, available at Walmart, will air on TNT Sports and HBO Max, with radio coverage provided by PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
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