Several major companies have signed on as new sponsors for an IndyCar race, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, set to take place around Washington, D.C. on Sunday. Boeing, SpaceX's Starlink, and Delta Air Lines are among the new backers.
The event, touted by President Donald Trump, will cap off a series of celebrations of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. Trump will wave the green flag at the start of the race and take a lap around the course in the presidential limousine.
Bud Denker, chair of the 250-mile race and president of Penske Corp, which is running the event, said that the new sponsors include Boeing, SpaceX's Starlink, and Delta Air Lines. "This is also an opportunity for us to grow our sport and, by showcasing it to these companies that were never part of our sport," Denker said.
The event has dozens of corporate sponsors, allowing executives to mingle with administration officials and lawmakers expected to be at the race. Delta CEO Ed Bastian is expected to attend, according to Denker.
Drivers will hit speeds of 170 miles per hour on historic Pennsylvania Avenue, around the National Archives, and through some of the country's cultural institutions on Saturday and Sunday. The White House referred questions about Trump's plans for the race to Penske.
Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser said the city expects 140,000 people to attend race events each day. A large swath of downtown will close to traffic.
The event has drawn attention for its high-profile backing, with Trump signing an executive order calling for the race in January. "I love the race," Trump said at the time.
The IndyCar series has gained a new level of exposure with the backing of major corporations. The event will be a test of the sport's ability to attract new fans and sponsors.
The Freedom 250 Grand Prix will take place on Sunday, with Trump expected to attend and wave the green flag at the start of the race.
Source: Yahoo Sports