ICM, Inc. and Green Plains Renewable Energy, both industry leaders in the development and production of biofuels in the U.S., are teaming up to sponsor the No. 37 Ethanol USA-Team IZOD car from Andretti Autosport driven by Ryan Hunter-Reay for this weekend's Iowa Corn Indy 250 at Iowa Speedway, extending the Andretti Autosport driver's deal with the team. Hunter-Reay's original deal with the Andretti squad expired with the most recent IZOD IndyCar Series race at Texas. The deal is a reunion of sorts for Hunter-Reay, who was sponsored by the U.S. ethanol industry in the 2007 and 2008 seasons.
"I couldn't be more thrilled to be representing Ethanol USA in the IZOD IndyCar Series again for a race that's fueled by ethanol made in the United States," Hunter-Reay said. "Everyone talks about cleaner, greener energy, but this is one industry that has been consistently delivering on its promises."
Hunter-Reay and his Team IZOD began the season with a runner-up finish in the Sao Paulo Indy 300. Three races later, he picked up his first victory of the year at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. He has collected three top-5s and currently sits sixth in IZOD IndyCar Series point standings.
"We're excited to be back in the IZOD IndyCar Series, and thrilled to renew our relationship with Ryan Hunter-Reay. Ryan has demonstrated his tremendous skill on the racetrack, and is a passionate supporter of the U.S. ethanol industry," said Dave Vander Griend, president and CEO of ICM.
Andretti Autosport has yet to confirm any additional races for Hunter-Reay beyond Iowa, however. Irishman Adam Carroll is set to join the team for a limited number of IndyCar races, beginning at Watkins Glen.