The iconic phrase used in motorsports received a unique twist recently when renowned actor and voice artist Morgan Freeman uttered the words to commence the 2025 Pennzoil 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. His memorable delivery of “Drivers, start your engines” resonated with fans, adding excitement to the fifth race of NASCAR’s season.

Freeman showcased his enthusiasm for speed during a pre-race interview, stating, “I’m some kind of a speed demon.” He reminisced about his experience as an honorary pace car driver in the 2004 Indianapolis 500 and his thrilling chance to drive a NASCAR vehicle at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Below is a tweet capturing Freeman’s exciting moment:

It’s @morgan_freeman with the command, and we’re ready to go racing! pic.twitter.com/FNhKmxDdgt
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) March 16, 2025

Freeman also enjoyed engaging with NASCAR drivers during pre-race celebrations. Notable interactions included Bubba Wallace presenting Freeman with a U.S. Air Force hat and a snapshot with Austin Cindric, the 2022 Daytona 500 champion.

After Freeman’s iconic command, polesitter Michael McDowell led the race, setting the stage for Christopher Bell’s pursuit of his fourth consecutive win in NASCAR’s modern era.