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- Written by Mike Admin
- Category: The Business Of Racing
By: gpstpete.com
February 27, 2025
February 27, 2025
Nashville, Tennessee – Bridgestone Americas (Bridgestone) today announced a three-year extension for its Firestone brand as the entitlement sponsor of the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. This agreement with Green Savoree Racing Promotions marks the continuation of a successful relationship that began in 2014. The new deal keeps the Firestone name on the opening race of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season through 2028.
“St. Pete is always an exciting event as we reconnect with fans and wave the green flag for a new season of racing,” said Lisa Boggs, Director, Bridgestone Americas Motorsports. “We take great pride in Firestone’s rich history in the sport, and starting each season at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg has become a big part of that. We’re excited to extend this tradition as part of our ongoing commitment to driving excitement and innovation in racing for years to come.”
The renewed entitlement agreement for the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg continues to reinforce the Firestone brand’s support for the fastest racing on earth. In September 2024, Bridgestone and Penske Entertainment announced a long-term extension for Firestone as the exclusive tire supplier for all INDYCAR-sanctioned racing.
“Firestone has been an integral part of the growth and success of the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg as title sponsor. This latest extension will take our partnership to a remarkable 15-year span,” said Kim Green, co-owner, chairman and CEO of Green Savoree Racing Promotions, organizers of the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding. “It’s an iconic brand that’s helped champions redefine limits in racing for generations, which aligns perfectly with the energy and excitement that embody this event."
The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding has become a marquee event, combining the excitement of INDYCAR racing with a stunning waterfront backdrop and a unique urban street circuit. This year’s event is scheduled for Feb. 28-March 2 to open the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season.
The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg marks the start of the 26th consecutive season for Firestone as the exclusive tire supplier. This year is also the 125th anniversary of Firestone’s founding in Akron, Ohio on August 3, 1900. Known for its durability, dependability, and unwavering dedication to quality, Firestone remains a trusted name in tire performance both on the road and on the track.
The brand’s storied history in motorsports began in 1911 with a win at the inaugural Indianapolis 500®, and its roots run nearly as deep in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area. Firestone Complete Auto Care opened its first local retail location in 1933 on Kennedy Boulevard in downtown Tampa. For more than 90 years, it has continued to grow and strengthen its legacy as a trusted tire and automotive service provider for the local community.
Both the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the INDY NXT by Firestone development series races on the streets of St. Petersburg will be televised on Sunday, March 2. The INDY NXT by Firestone race will air on FS1 at 10 a.m. ET, and the NTT INDYCAR SERIES will make its debut on FOX network television beginning at 12 noon ET.
Bridgestone motorsports activities are leveraged globally as co-creation platforms to help deliver the values of the Bridgestone E8 Commitment. This corporate commitment outlines eight areas where the company is focused on contributing to a more sustainable world. The ongoing relationship with the NTT INDYCAR SERIES supports the values of emotion, energy, ecology, and empowerment.
For more company news, visit BridgestoneAmericas.com
About Bridgestone Americas, Inc.
Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is the U.S.-based subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, a global leader in tires and rubber, building on its expertise to provide solutions for safe and sustainable mobility. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Bridgestone Americas employs more than 50,000 people across its worldwide operations. Bridgestone offers a diverse product portfolio of premium tires and advanced solutions backed by innovative technologies, improving the way people around the world move, live, work and play.
About Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding:
The 21st annual Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding is a race event held during Florida’s spring break season. Traditionally the site of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES’ season-opening race, St. Pete is a destination city hosting this annual motorsports tradition and offering a festival atmosphere with its downtown location. The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding airs live on a national broadcast on FOX.
FOX Sports named the race one of its “50 Events You Can’t Miss in 2025.” The temporary circuit is a 1.8-mile, 14-turn configuration that uses the streets circling Pioneer Park, the Duke Energy Center for the Arts, The Dali Museum and extending onto the runway at Albert Whitted Airport, and borders the waterfront of Tampa Bay and picturesque St. Petersburg Harbor and Marina. The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding is owned and operated by Green Savoree St. Petersburg, LLC. Green Savoree St. Petersburg, LLC is owned by Green Savoree Racing Promotions 2, LLC whose other subsidiaries also promote three additional NTT INDYCAR SERIES races, The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio (July 4-6, 2025), Ontario Honda Dealers Indy Toronto (July 18-20, 2025) and BITNILE.COM Grand Prix of Portland (Aug. 8-10, 2025).
For more information, visit gpstpete.com, ‘like’ its Facebook page @GPSTPETE or follow the event on X at @GPSTPETE and Instagram at @GPSTPETE using #FirestoneGP.
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- Written by Mike Admin
- Category: The Business Of Racing
By: NASCAR
February 11, 2025
February 11, 2025
Just in time for the DAYTONA 500, leading Roblox developer Voldex announced its partnership with NASCAR to bring a year of authentic NASCAR fun to top Roblox racing game, Driving Empire. Starting February 14, Driving Empire players and NASCAR fans can look forward to high-octane updates and events, starting with the DAYTONA 500. Throughout the year, Driving Empire will release new NASCAR content like cars, liveries, races, events, UGC items and more. Players will dive into the action by racing official NASCAR vehicles from Toyota, Ford, and Chevrolet at the famed Daytona International Speedway.
“Driving Empire has become a must-play destination for car enthusiasts on Roblox,” said Harry Bienenstock, Head of Growth at Voldex. “Our previous partnership with NASCAR in 2024 was met with a lot of excitement from players and we’re thrilled to partner with NASCAR again for an even bigger celebration of one of the world’s most iconic motorsports!”
The partnership will also introduce a dedicated area called NASCAR World in Driving Empire, a central hub for users to unlock over 40 exclusive liveries, collect official NASCAR UGC items, and connect with fellow racing enthusiasts.
“Our mission has always been to bring the thrill of NASCAR to fans on all platforms,” said Nick Rend, Vice President of Interactive and Emerging Platforms at NASCAR. “Our partnership with Voldex to bring NASCAR to Driving Empire introduces our sport to the largest car enthusiast audience on Roblox. This collaboration will welcome new fans to NASCAR while complementing the real-world action with an interactive experience–including, for the first time, the addition of all Cup Series teams on the platform.
We’re excited to see fans engage with the new content year-round and to have a persistent presence in Driving Empire.”
Check out the action for yourself only in Driving Empire on Roblox. For additional information about NASCAR, including this year’s DAYTONA 500 starting on February 16, visit NASCAR.com.
About Voldex
Voldex is a leading developer on the Roblox platform, known for its immersive and engaging gaming experiences. With a diverse portfolio of games, including the leading role-playing game, Brookhaven, the #1 football experience NFL Universe Football and the hit racing game Driving Empire, Voldex is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of interactive entertainment and connecting users worldwide.
About NASCAR
The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Euro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series).
The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.
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- Written by Mike Admin
- Category: The Business Of Racing
By: IndyCar
February 11, 2025
February 11, 2025
Indianapolis, Indiana – Penske Entertainment announced several updates to its senior leadership structure today in order to best position the organization to capitalize on significant growth opportunities ahead.
Key changes shared this morning include:
- Doug Boles will serve as President of both INDYCAR and Indianapolis Motor Speedway, succeeding Jay Frye.
- Mark Sibla will be promoted to Senior Vice President, INDYCAR Competition & Operations.
- Kyle Novak will become INDYCAR’s Vice President of Officiating and Race Control.
- Alex Damron has been named Chief Marketing Officer, INDYCAR, while also continuing as Vice President of Corporate Communications for Penske Entertainment.
- Louis Kissinger will be promoted to General Manager, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Operations.
- Doug Boles brings decades of motorsport experience to his new responsibilities, including being the President of Indianapolis Motor Speedway since 2013. At IMS, he oversaw the sellout of the 100th Indianapolis 500, the first full-capacity crowd in the event’s storied history. In addition, he’s managed more than $150 million in strategic investment at the Racing Capital of the World, including “Project 100” and significant infrastructure improvements following the acquisition of IMS by Penske Corp.
Across his tenure at IMS, he has been particularly lauded for his promotional prowess and strategic marketing capabilities, growing the Speedway’s global reach and better connecting Indy 500 fans to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. As a founding partner and Chief Operating Officer at Panther Racing and as Hulman & Company’s Vice President of Communications, he has worked extensively within the INDYCAR paddock, as well. At Panther Racing, Boles helped lead the team to 15 INDYCAR SERIES race wins and two INDYCAR SERIES championships, in addition to seven INDY NXT by Firestone race wins and a championship. In total, he has more than 20 years of executive leadership experience in motorsports, within team operations, sponsorship, marketing, public relations and more.
“Doug is the ideal choice to lead both INDYCAR and IMS as we enter a new era of opportunity and visibility,” said Penske Entertainment President & CEO Mark Miles. “He’s an exceptional leader and motivator who is appreciated by our fans and respected by our owners, drivers, partners and additional key stakeholders.”
Said Boles: “Racing is in my DNA, and no form of racing resonates more personally and strongly with me than the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. I’m honored to lead the amazing team at INDYCAR, and I truly believe the future is bigger and brighter than ever for our sport and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. I’m extremely grateful to Mark Miles for this opportunity, and fans can rest assured the hard work is already under way and 2025 will be a fantastic season.”
Boles becomes President of INDYCAR as Frye departs the organization following 10 years in the role. During Frye’s tenure, he led a period of tremendous successes at INDYCAR, including securing the entitlement series sponsorships with Verizon and NTT, the development of the AK18 universal aero kit, development and implementation of the total driver cockpit safety solution aeroscreen and state-of-the-art hybrid technology introduction. In addition, Jay Frye also oversaw an expanded grid with incredible competition.
“It has been an absolute honor and privilege to be the President of INDYCAR and work alongside the dedicated and talented men and women at INDYCAR and in the INDYCAR paddock,” Frye said. “The growth and success the series has had over the last 10 years would not be possible without the commitment and collaboration of the owners, drivers and teams.”
In both his role at INDYCAR and as IMS President, Boles will report to Penske Entertainment President & CEO Miles. As Boles manages strategic vision and priorities across both INDYCAR and IMS, several additional staffing updates will help oversee day-to-day operations within each organization.
At INDYCAR, Mark Sibla has been named Senior Vice President of INDYCAR Competition and Operations. He has been a senior member of INDYCAR’s management team for more than a decade and will lead workstreams focused on general operations and special initiatives such as development of the new car.
Also at INDYCAR, Kyle Novak begins an enhanced role as Vice President of Officiating and Race Control. In this position he will lead both the Race Control and Race Tech teams at INDYCAR, responsible for ensuring rigorous and equitable enforcement of NTT INDYCAR SERIES and INDY NXT presented by Firestone competition regulations. Novak has served as INDYCAR’s Race Director since the 2018 season and was elected to the FIA General Assembly in 2022.
In addition, as INDYCAR prepares for new levels of audience exposure through its relationship with FOX Sports, Alex Damron has been named Chief Marketing Officer, charged with fully implementing a maximized and unified promotional plan for the sport. In this role, he will lead the marketing and communications teams at INDYCAR. He will also continue as Vice President of Corporate Communications for Penske Entertainment, responsible for overseeing IMS PR efforts and Penske Entertainment’s photo and editorial operations.
“We’re confident Alex is ready for this opportunity,” Miles said. “He’s played an integral role in our transition to FOX Sports, driving significant work to implement the phenomenal promotional initiatives we’ve already seen, ensuring we can quickly and efficiently leverage new opportunities.”
At IMS, Kissinger steps into the role of General Manager, IMS Operations, leading teams responsible for suite/hospitality sales, track operations and event operations. Kissinger began his career at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway serving as a distinguished Orr Fellow, with his most recent role being Director of Event Operations & Experience at IMS.
The 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season launches on Sunday, March 2 with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding on FOX. The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is the only premier motorsport in the United States with every race broadcast on network television. For more info, visit www.INDYCAR.com.
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- Written by Mike Admin
- Category: The Business Of Racing
By: NASCAR
February 14, 2025
February 14, 2025
Daytona Beach, Florida - From Florida’s beaches to screens around the globe, the 67th running of the the DAYTONA 500 (Sunday, Feb. 16), with its record $30 million purse, will be broadcast to fans in more than 190 countries and territories in 26 languages, reaching over 650 million households worldwide.
As previously announced, NASCAR has renewed its longstanding relationship with Canada’s Bell Media, and will kick off its new deal with the DAYTONA 500 airing on CTV and TSN. For the first time ever, races across all three national series will be available exclusively on Bell Media platforms. NASCAR has also announced additional partners for the local NASCAR Canada Series – with races to air on Rev TV and TVA Sports.
In Europe, NASCAR renewed relationships with important long-term partners Ziggo in the Netherlands, Premier Sports in the United Kingdom and Viasat in the Nordics.
Elsewhere, New Zealand’s Three Network is back to cover Shane van Gisbergen’s first full-time NASCAR Cup Series season, with GAORA Sports airing the DAYTONA 500 in Japan. NASCAR also continues its partnership with FOX Sports Mexico, and will look to expand its coverage leading up to the first-ever points-paying international NASCAR Cup Series race in Mexico City.
New international partners include Abema in Japan (with coverage beginning after the DAYTONA 500) and SportDigital in Germany.
NASCAR continues to partner with IMG to secure international media rights deals outside the United States. It recently extended the partnership, expanding IMG’s advisory remit to include Latin America.
“As NASCAR kicks off another thrilling season with the Daytona 500, we’re excited to once again broadcast the sport globally,” said Nick Skipper, NASCAR managing director, media strategy. “The international audience is a key area of growth for our business, and we feel the combination of existing and new partnerships we have in place best position us to serve existing and potential new fans everywhere.”
In the United States, fans can watch the DAYTONA 500 live on FOX or listen on MRN or SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
For a full list of countries and territories, and the broadcast partners airing NASCAR, click here.
About NASCAR
The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Euro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series).
The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.
For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X and Facebook.
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- Written by Mike Admin
- Category: The Business Of Racing
By: NASCAR
February 4, 2025
February 4, 2025
Daytona Beach, Florida — NASCAR and Comcast today announced the renewal of their decade-long partnership, with Comcast continuing its role as both a Premier Partner of the NASCAR Cup Series and title sponsor of the Xfinity Series. The Comcast and NASCAR relationship began in 2014 and the collaboration between the two companies has significantly contributed to the sport's growth and fan engagement. The Premier Partnership has been renewed for multiple years with the Xfinity Series title sponsorship being extended for one year.
New to the sport starting in 2025, race fans can look forward to the "Xfinity Fastest Lap," a program that awards one race point to the eligible driver and owner with the fastest single lap in each race, adding extra intensity and strategy to the competition. This new feature will be part of all three national series — NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™ and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™ — enhancing the competitive landscape and fan experience.
“We’re not just entering year 11 of our partnership. We’re embarking on year one of a renewed relationship with NASCAR filled with fresh energy and exciting opportunities to enhance the competition on the track in a way that has never been done before, and continue to connect with fans in new and engaging ways,” said Matt Lederer, Vice President of Brand Partnership & Engagement at Comcast.
Comcast is expanding its NASCAR partnership to include more of its connectivity and entertainment brands – Xfinity Mobile and Xumo. Xfinity Mobile is joining the partnership as an Official Wireless Partner of NASCAR. Xumo, Comcast’s and Charter’s streaming platform joint venture, will become an Official Video and Streaming Partner of NASCAR, with plans to offer its customers immersive viewing experiences and unique content.
“NASCAR is incredibly appreciative of Comcast’s continued partnership and their commitment to innovation and fan engagement within our sport,” said Michelle Byron, Executive Vice President and Chief Partnership and Licensing Officer at NASCAR. “Their contributions over the past decade, from enhancing the fan experience to supporting community initiatives, have been invaluable. We look forward to building on the success of our partnership during the 2025 season and beyond.”
Comcast's commitment to NASCAR extends beyond the track and is woven into its activations. From the title sponsorship of the Xfinity 500 to the Comcast Community Champion of the Year program, which recognizes individuals within the NASCAR community who demonstrate exceptional dedication to philanthropic endeavors, Comcast has consistently championed the sport and its values. This program underscores Comcast's commitment to social responsibility and its alignment with NASCAR's values of community engagement.
This renewed partnership ensures that Comcast and NASCAR will continue to deliver thrilling racing action and engaging fan experiences for years to come.
About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.
About NASCAR
The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) is the sanctioning body for the No. 1 form of motorsports in the United States and owner of 14 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities. NASCAR sanctions races in three national series (NASCAR Cup Series™, NASCAR Xfinity Series™, and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series™), four international series (NASCAR Brasil Series, NASCAR Canada Series, NASCAR Euro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series), four regional series (ARCA Menards Series, ARCA Menards Series East & West and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) and a local grassroots series (NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series). The International Motor Sports Association™ (IMSA®) governs the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship™, the premier U.S. sports car series. NASCAR also owns Motor Racing Network, Racing Electronics, and ONE DAYTONA. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, with offices in five cities across North America, NASCAR sanctions more than 1,200 races annually in 11 countries and more than 30 U.S. states.
For more information visit www.NASCAR.com and www.IMSA.com, and follow NASCAR on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X and Facebook.