IMSA Announces Major Partnership Extensions and New Esports Championship
The State of the Sport news conference held today by IMSA featured several significant announcements in addition to the release of the 2024 full-season entry list for the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. These include contract extensions with key partners WeatherTech, Michelin, and VP Racing Fuels, as well as the launch of the 2023 IMSA Esports Global Championship.
WeatherTech Extends Entitlement Partnership through 2030
IMSA and WeatherTech have confirmed a contract extension that will keep the Bolingbrook, Illinois-based company as the entitlement partner for the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship until 2030. The partnership, initially established in 2016, has been instrumental in the growth and success of IMSA. WeatherTech’s continued support is a huge vote of confidence in IMSA’s platform and its commercial viability.
Michelin Extends IMSA Partnership through 2028
Michelin’s partnership with IMSA as the “Official Tire” has been extended through the 2028 season. The partnership includes Michelin’s entitlement of the Michelin Pilot Challenge and the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup, along with supplying tires for all cars in the WeatherTech Championship, Michelin Pilot Challenge, and IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge. The collaboration between IMSA and Michelin has been successful in both marketing and on-track competition, and the extended partnership is expected to bring continued growth and success to both organizations.
VP Racing Fuels Renews Official Fuel Supplier Partnership through 2030
VP Racing Fuels, the official fuel supplier of IMSA since 2014, has extended its partnership through 2030. This long-standing partnership has been mutually beneficial, with VP Racing Fuels gaining increased visibility as a brand and IMSA benefitting from a reliable and high-quality fuel supplier. VP Racing Fuels’ commitment to sustainability aligns with IMSA’s efforts, including the use of renewable fuel in the WeatherTech Championship GTP class.
IMSA Announces 2023 Esports Global Championship
IMSA, in collaboration with iRacing, VCO, and Michelin, will present the 2023 IMSA Esports Global Championship starting next month. Following the success of the inaugural season in 2022, the championship will feature some of the world’s top sim racing drivers and teams competing for cash prizes and the series championship. The Esports Global Championship will showcase multi-driver, multi-class racing, allowing sim racers and teams to collaborate with manufacturers involved in the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
Mazda MX-5 Cup to Remain on Support Package for Three Years
The Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by IMSA and Andersen Promotions has extended its partnership with IMSA for an additional three years. The MX-5 Cup series has become a popular addition to WeatherTech Championship event weekends, known for its thrilling races and close competition. The continuation of the partnership ensures the series’ growth and success as a premier spec racing series.
Conclusion
IMSA’s State of the Sport news conference delivered positive news for the commercial health and future of the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. Contract extensions with WeatherTech, Michelin, and VP Racing Fuels demonstrate the confidence and support of key partners. The announcement of the 2023 IMSA Esports Global Championship further strengthens IMSA’s connection with sim racing and provides an exciting platform for virtual competition. The continuation of the Mazda MX-5 Cup under IMSA and Andersen Promotions guarantees an engaging racing experience for fans. Overall, these announcements reflect the stability and growth of IMSA and its commitment to providing thrilling sports car racing both on track and online.