DeMarcus Ware, Iván ‘Pudge’ Rodríguez to serve as Grand Prix of Arlington marshals

When IndyCar arrives in Arlington next month, a couple familiar faces will be right there to get the main event underway.

Hall of Famers DeMarcus Ware and Iván “Pudge” Rodríguez will serve as Grand Marshals for the event, the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington announced Wednesday.

The former Cowboys and Rangers stars will give the “Drivers, start your engines” command ahead of the main race on March 15.

“DeMarcus Ware and Iván ‘Pudge’ Rodríguez represent the very best of North Texas — championship-caliber excellence, unwavering pride and a deep connection to this community,” Grand Prix president Bill Miller said in a news release. “Having these renowned Hall of Famers serve as our Co-Grand Marshals is incredibly meaningful and sets the tone for an unforgettable celebration of world-class racing right here in Arlington.”

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Rodriguez and Ware both played out significant portions of their legendary careers in Arlington, with the Grand Prix itself taking place in and around the city’s entertainment district which is anchored by the Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium and Rangers’ Globe Life Field. The grand prix weekend will take place from Friday, March 13 to Sunday, March 15.

Ware, Dallas’ franchise leader in sacks, forced fumbles and tackles for loss, spent nine seasons with the Cowboys, earning seven Pro Bowl nods and four All-Pro selections. Rodríguez played 13 seasons (1991-2002 and 2009) with the Rangers, earning league MVP honors in 1999 and leading the team to its first ever postseason appearance.

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