INDIANAPOLIS – Tony Kanaan may have the most appropriate sponsor for the Indianapolis 500 during Memorial Day weekend.
The sponsor is the American Legion, which is hoping to bring attention to some of the most important issues facing today’s veterans, including veteran suicide and honoring those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms.
Kanaan will take over the No. 48 Chevrolet at Chip Ganassi Racing from street and road course driver Jimmie Johnson, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion. Kanaan will drive the No. 48 in all four oval races.
“I’m excited to work with The American Legion this year,” Kanaan said. “Jimmie and I had some fun filming the unveil videos. This livery is really sharp looking, and I’m so happy to be running my 20th Indianapolis 500 in it. The American Legion is an important resource for veterans in helping make sure they get the benefits they have earned through their service, and I am proud to represent them, and all veterans.”
The American Legion, the nation’s largest veterans service organization, is using its presence in Indy car to elevate awareness and introduce a new modern brand expression. The new logo will not replace the historic American Legion emblem, but rather complement it by honoring the history, heritage and symbols which Legionnaires hold dear.
“Just like each one of our military branches, The American Legion will always have and utilize our traditional seal which has deep meaning to each and every Legionnaire,” said Dean Kessel, chief marketing officer for The American Legion. “Our new marketing logo on the No. 48 Honda livery looks fantastic and provides a modern and contemporary expression for the brand. The American Legion name is clearly visible and honors our nation’s veterans while still honoring who we are as an organization.”
The American Legion is prominently featured on the No. 48 Honda during every race in the 2021 and 2022 NTT IndyCar Series seasons. It is the primary paint scheme for two races this year, including the Indianapolis 500 on Memorial Day weekend and at Texas Motor Speedway May 2.
The American Legion is the largest veterans service organization with nearly 2 million members in more than 12,000 posts across the nation. Chartered by Congress in 1919, the American Legion is committed to mentoring youth and sponsoring wholesome community programs, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting a strong national security and continued devotion to service members and veterans.