American Idol winners, Jordin Sparks and Phillip Phillips performed ahead of the rain-delayed Indy500
TWO American Idol winners performed ahead of the 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday (May 26). Season 6 winner, Jordin Sparks, sang the National Anthem, while season 11 champ, Phillip Phillips performed God Bless America.
Race coverage began at 11 a.m., but rain delayed the race 4 hours. The event finally got underway at 4:45. Lightning was no longer a threat, and even the sun came out, helping to dry the raceway. Josef Newgarden won the race for the second year in a row.
Jordin Sparks sings the National Anthem
Jordin is no stranger to singing the Anthem at sports events, beginning with the Super Bowl in 2008, shortly after she won American Idol in 2007. Her father, Felipe Sparks, played NFL football for the New York Giants.
On Instagram, Jordin wrote, “Rain or shine, we race! It was such an honor to sing the National Anthem at the #indy500!” She continued, “Such an incredible experience—again! Thank you @indanapolismotorspeedway for having me and taking care of my family and team. It was a beautiful moment to remember those who served on this Memorial Day weekend.”
Phillip Phillips performed an acoustic version of “God Bless America”
Before Jordin sang the Anthem, Phillip performed a heartfelt version of “America the Beautiful” accompanying himself on acoustic guitar. He followed a solemn tribute to fallen military featuring a soldier playing a mournful taps on the traditional bugle.
Actors Austin Butler and Jodie Comer served as the Indy 500 honorary starters. Baseball Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. served as honorary Pace Car driver, The race aired on NBC and Peacock. If you missed it and want to to watch the replay, the race, including pre-race events is currently streaming on Peacock.
Phillip Phillips is heading out on tour this summer. Catch his schedule. HERE. His latest single, “Love Like That,” continues to chart on Hot AC and currently sits in the Top 15.
