RTV6's Sports Director Dave Furst reports that the Food Network star has been tapped to drive the pace car.

Speedway officials declined to comment on the speculation, but said a formal announcement would be made next week.

Fieri rose to fame after winning "The Next Food Network Star" in 2006, and now hosts "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives," "Guy's Big Bite" and "Tailgate Warriors" on the network.

He's visited Indianapolis with his "Diners" crew more than once, profiling several local eateries, including Zest, Steer-In Restaurant, the Tamale Place and Jerseys Café.

Fieri is also a known fan of fast cars. His $200,000 2008 yellow Lamborghini was recovered this week after it was stolen in a daring heist last year.

Fieri lives in northern California with his wife, Lori, and their two sons, Hunter and Ryder.