Sunoco’s Exciting Return to IndyCar with Chip Ganassi Racing
Sunoco, a name that resonates deeply within the motorsport community, is poised to make a significant impact by entering a multi-year partnership with Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR). This collaboration will see Sunoco serve as the primary sponsor for the No. 8 Honda, driven by the talented Kyffin Simpson. This marks a historic moment, as it is the first time since 1973 that Sunoco has taken on the role of full-season primary partner in the IndyCar Series.
The Legacy of Sunoco in Motorsports
Sunoco has a rich history in motorsports, particularly as a fuel supplier. From 2010 to 2018, the brand played a pivotal role in fueling North America’s top open-wheel racing championship and was also the primary fuel supplier for the prestigious Indianapolis Motor Speedway during the same period. This new partnership not only signifies a return to the IndyCar Series for Sunoco but also represents a reunion with a sport that has been part of its legacy for decades.
Chip Ganassi, the owner of CGR, expressed his enthusiasm about this partnership, highlighting the alignment of values between the team and Sunoco. “Sunoco has long been synonymous with performance and innovation, values that mirror the DNA of our team,” Ganassi stated. This collaboration aims to leverage their shared commitment to pushing boundaries both on and off the track.
A Stellar Team Performance
CGR is no stranger to success, having had a remarkable 2025 season. The team, which includes accomplished drivers like Alex Palou, Scott Dixon, and Kyffin Simpson, secured an impressive nine wins, including the iconic Indianapolis 500. They also achieved six pole positions and a total of 17 podium finishes throughout the season, culminating in an IndyCar championship title.
Kyffin Simpson, at just 21 years old, is continuing to build his reputation in the sport. His sophomore season saw him achieve his first career podium finish in Toronto, along with three top-five finishes. With this new partnership with Sunoco, Simpson aims to elevate his performance further in the upcoming seasons.
A Historic Partnership
The partnership between Sunoco and CGR is not just about the present; it also pays homage to the past. Over the years, numerous legendary drivers have represented Sunoco on the racetrack. One of the most notable figures is Mark Donohue, who drove the No. 12 Sunoco Eagle back in 1968. Donohue made history by winning the Indianapolis 500 in 1972, marking a significant milestone for both himself and the Sunoco brand.
Other prominent figures, such as Gary Bettenhousen, Tony Kanaan, and NASCAR legend Bobby Allison, have also driven under the Sunoco banner. Their contributions to the sport have solidified Sunoco’s reputation as a leading brand in motorsports.
Kyffin Simpson’s Growth and Aspirations
As Kyffin Simpson embarks on his third year in IndyCar, the arrival of Sunoco as a partner is viewed as a significant boost to his career. Simpson expressed his excitement about this new chapter, stating, “We’ve made big strides on the track, and this partnership will only help us get better. I’m confident we can take another step forward and have even more success in 2026 and beyond.”
The support from a brand like Sunoco is expected to enhance Simpson’s performance and help him build upon the foundations laid in his previous seasons. The combination of Sunoco’s storied history and CGR’s competitive edge creates an environment ripe for success.
Looking Ahead: The Future of CGR and Sunoco
With the partnership now in place, the focus shifts to the future. Both CGR and Sunoco share a vision of innovation and excellence in racing. Their collaboration is expected to not only yield impressive results on the track but also foster a strong community presence and engagement with fans.
As they prepare for the upcoming IndyCar season, CGR aims to capitalize on the momentum gained from their previous successes. The addition of Sunoco as a primary sponsor is expected to further enhance the team’s capacity to compete at the highest levels of motorsport.
The Importance of Performance and Innovation
In the world of competitive racing, performance and innovation are crucial. Sunoco’s dedication to providing high-quality fuel aligns perfectly with CGR’s commitment to excellence. This partnership is a testament to the importance of collaboration in achieving greatness in motorsports.
The shared values of performance and innovation will likely drive both entities to explore new technologies and strategies to enhance their competitive edge. As they work together, fans can expect to see exciting developments both on the racetrack and in the overall fan experience.
Engaging with Motorsports Fans
Fan engagement is a vital aspect of motorsports, and both Sunoco and CGR recognize the importance of connecting with their audience. Through various initiatives and events, they plan to create opportunities for fans to interact with the team and the brand.
Engaging with the motorsport community is essential for building a loyal fan base. Sunoco’s history in the sport provides a unique opportunity to create meaningful connections with fans who appreciate the tradition and legacy that the brand represents.
Conclusion
The partnership between Sunoco and Chip Ganassi Racing marks a significant milestone in the history of IndyCar and motorsports as a whole. With a legacy steeped in performance, innovation, and success, this collaboration is set to bring new energy and excitement to the racing scene. As Kyffin Simpson and the CGR team gear up for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on their journey as they strive for continued excellence with the support of Sunoco.
