A prominent figure in Detroit sports will take center stage during the final day of the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear, as Detroit Lions President and CEO Rod Wood has been selected to serve as the Grand Marshal on Sunday, June 1.

As a top executive of one of the NFL’s most beloved and competitive franchises, Wood will take part in ceremonial pre-race events ahead of the weekend’s concluding race – the Chevrolet INDYCAR Grand Prix – held Sunday afternoon in the heart of the Motor City.

“Rod Wood is a remarkable leader in the city and a devoted advocate for Detroit’s deep sports heritage and civic initiatives,” said Michael Montri, President of the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear. “We’re proud to continue involving the Detroit Lions at our event and have Rod embody the strength and spirit of Detroit as our Grand Marshal on Sunday.”

Wood becomes the latest in a series of Detroit Lions representatives chosen as Grand Marshals at the Detroit Grand Prix, following linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, running back Zonovan Knight, and defensive lineman Alim McNeil in 2024; offensive tackle Penei Sewell (2022); head coach Dan Campbell (2021); guard T.J. Lang (2017); and defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh (2012).

“It’s a privilege to be the Grand Marshal of the Detroit Grand Prix and to carry on the Lions’ tradition with this incredible event,” Wood shared. “The Grand Prix highlights the vibrancy of Downtown Detroit and the deep-rooted enthusiasm of Detroiters for automobiles and motorsports. It’s one of the city’s standout events.”

Since being named Lions President in November 2015, Wood has led both football and business operations for the franchise, reporting directly to Lions Principal Owner and Chair Sheila Ford Hamp.

Under his direction, the Lions have risen to become one of the NFL’s top-performing teams over the past three seasons, cultivating an electric home-game atmosphere fueled by passionate fans. The Lions just completed a record-setting 15-2 season, including back-to-back NFC North titles.

Prior to his Lions role, Wood was President and CEO of Ford Estates, bringing a wealth of executive insight and leadership experience to the team.

His emphasis on excellence and community ties makes him a strong match for the Grand Marshal role at the Grand Prix – a major annual Detroit event that has further embraced the city since returning to its downtown street circuit in 2023.