The American Legion and Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) today announced a multi-year sponsorship agreement for the No. 48 Honda in the NTT IndyCar Series. Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson will drive the street and road courses while former Indianapolis 500 winner and Series Champion Tony Kanaan will handle the ovals.
“We’re excited about this new relationship with The American Legion as it allows us to further the sponsorship program on the No. 48 team with Jimmie and Tony, while also representing a very important relationship with an organization dedicated to supporting veterans,” said Chip Ganassi, team owner of Chip Ganassi Racing. “Jimmie in particular has a long-standing appreciation for the service of veterans, so it was just another reason why partnering with The American Legion on his debut in the NTT IndyCar Series made sense.”
The American Legion will be featured prominently on Johnson’s No. 48 Honda during every race in the 2021 and 2022 NTT IndyCar Series. The largest and most influential veterans service organization will also be the primary paint scheme for two races in 2021, including, “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” the Indianapolis 500 on Memorial Day weekend. Kanaan, winner of the 2013 Indianapolis 500, will be behind the wheel for those races.
“This is truly a win-win for all involved,” said James W. “Bill” Oxford, national commander of The American Legion. “Teaming up with Chip Ganassi Racing allows The American Legion to showcase how it strengthens America every day through its programs, advocacy and support of veterans and their families. We’re looking forward to bringing that message and our mission to race fans across the country.”
The announcement comes on #GivingTuesday, a day of global giving designed to help change communities and the world. Donors can visit www.legion.org/48 to make a gift and help celebrate this new relationship and veterans across the country.
Johnson, who has family members who have served in the military, will make a $10,000 donation to The American Legion. Johnson hopes his donation will motivate fans and the public to support veterans by donating $48 to The American Legion. The $48 pays homage to the number 48 car that he and Kanaan will drive.
“Our family knows firsthand how important it is to recognize our veterans,” said Johnson, who’s grandfathers and brother-in-law served in the military. “It’s exciting to be partnering with The American Legion to be able to show our appreciation to veterans and to continue to raise public awareness and support for this special organization. Giving Tuesday is a great day to announce this partnership and a way for fans to show their appreciation for our veterans.”
