Chicago, IL – A company known for making recreational vehicles and engines is the new sponsor of one of the biggest races during Speedweeks.
Daytona International Speedway announced on Saturday morning that Can-Am – a part of the BRP manufacturing group – will become the title sponsor for the Duels races starting in 2016.
“We’re excited about developing this new partnership with BRP, the world leader in recreational vehicles,” said DIS President Joie Chitwood III from Chicagoland Speedway. “With two thrilling and unpredictable 150-mile qualifying races, the Can-Am Duel At Daytona will provide a great platform for BRP to promote their Can-Am products at the ‘World Center of Racing.’”
Can-Am – best known for its line of all-terrain vehicles – will take over the spot formerly held by Budweiser, according to BRP Global Brands and Strategy senior vice-president Anne Bélec.
“BRP and its Can-Am products are synonymous with innovation and performance in the powersports industry,” Bélec added. “We feel that there’s a natural fit with NASCAR racers and their fans.”
Ski-Doo, Sea-Doo and Evinrude are other brands run by BRP.
The financial terms of the deal weren’t disclosed.
The Duels are a pair of 150-mile races that determine who will be allowed to race in the Daytona 500 3 days later.
The 58th annual edition of the Great American Race will take place on February 21st. It’s expected to be the first Daytona 500 since the completion of Daytona Rising, the $400 million dollar renovation of DIS.
Speedway officials say race fans will see wider and more comfortable seats and roomier concourses as well as escalators and elevators. There will also be twice as many restrooms and three times as many concessions and merchandise stands.
Copyright 2015 Southern Stone Communications.