Gainbridge extends sponsorship of the Indianapolis 500 in multi-year deal

Gainbridge Extends Indianapolis 500 Presenting Sponsorship in Multi-Year Deal

Penske Entertainment Corp. and financial company Gainbridge have agreed to a multi-year contract extension that will keep Gainbridge as the presenting sponsor of the Indianapolis 500, officials announced Thursday in Indianapolis.

While both organizations confirmed the renewal of their partnership, specific terms and financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.

“Partnering with the Indianapolis 500 is a natural fit for Gainbridge, reflecting our shared commitment to success, innovation and making every second count,” said Dan Towriss, president of Group 1001, the parent company of Gainbridge. “The Indianapolis 500 holds special significance to Hoosiers and fans across the world. We’re excited for this next chapter in our partnership and honored to celebrate the skilled drivers and the dedicated fans.”

Towriss brings significant motorsport credentials to the partnership. Beyond his role at Group 1001, he owns Andretti Global, a prominent team competing in the NTT IndyCar Series and other racing categories. He is also leading the Cadillac Formula 1 team that will enter the global racing series next season, further cementing his influence in international motorsport.

The relationship between Gainbridge and the iconic race began in 2019 when the financial services company first signed on as the title sponsor. Since then, Gainbridge’s brand presence has become integral to the race experience, with its logo prominently featured throughout the Indianapolis Motor Speedway – including on the historic yard of bricks at the start/finish line, the checkered and green flags, the Pagoda, the winner’s ceremonial wreath, and Victory Podium.

Mark Miles, President and CEO of Penske Entertainment, emphasized the strategic importance of maintaining this partnership. “Our partnership with Gainbridge aligns two brands with a shared passion for growth and world-class customer experience,” Miles said. “Renewing this relationship with a multi-year agreement showcases the strength and continued relevance of the Indy 500, an iconic event with the perfect entitlement partner to fuel a momentous future.”

The announcement comes at a high point for the world’s largest single-day sporting event. The 2023 race marked a significant milestone with a complete sellout of the massive facility, resulting in the rare implementation of the local television blackout – a tradition that limits live broadcasts in the Indianapolis area when all tickets are sold.

The partnership extension signals confidence in the event’s enduring appeal as it approaches its 110th running, scheduled for May 24, 2026. Under Roger Penske’s ownership, which began in January 2020, Indianapolis Motor Speedway has undergone significant facility improvements and renewed marketing efforts that have helped revitalize interest in the historic race.

For Gainbridge, the continuation of this sponsorship represents a valuable platform for brand visibility. As a digital financial services company offering annuities and life insurance products, the association with the prestigious race provides exposure to millions of viewers and attendees annually.

The Indianapolis 500 is widely regarded as part of motorsport’s “Triple Crown,” alongside the Monaco Grand Prix and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The event regularly attracts international drivers and maintains its position as the centerpiece of the IndyCar Series schedule.

Financial services companies have increasingly turned to sports sponsorships as a method to build brand recognition and create business development opportunities. For Indianapolis-based events, having a committed corporate partner helps secure the financial foundation necessary to maintain the race’s tradition and prominence in the global motorsport landscape.