One of motorsports' biggest name sponsors may be making a return to IndyCar racing this month. After a hiatus of more than a dozen years, Budweiser is rumored to be back in the series as an associate sponsor for Graham Rahal's Service Central Chip Ganassi Racing entry at this year's Indianapolis 500.
Budweiser's last sponsorship in IndyCar came with Richie Hearn and Della Penna Motorsports in 1999, and was terminated prior to the start of the 2000 CART IndyCar season.
Rahal suggested the move was official on Twitter Wednesday afternoon.
“For those who haven't seen or heard, Budweiser is back at the #indy500 this year, better yet w/ a Rahal as the driver!” Rahal tweeted. “Incredibly excited to have them on board with us. Let's all have a #Bud tonight to support them coming back to @Indycar!!!!!”
A team spokesperson said a release was due out with further details later Wednesday, and suggested Bud's activation will come largely off-track.