Fans Can Bid on Unique Items Nov. 28 To Help Legion Programs
Chip Ganassi Racing announced Nov. 27 that Linus Lundqvist will drive the No. 8 American Legion Honda throughout the 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season.
Lundqvist, 24, signed a multiyear deal with Chip Ganassi Racing on Aug. 31 after setting the fastest lap in two of his first three NTT INDYCAR SERIES races in 2023. Officially embarking on the 2024 season as a rookie, 2022 INDY NXT by Firestone champion Lundqvist is taking on the full calendar primarily sporting The American Legion’s red, white and blue “Be The One” livery, including the historic 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on May 26.
“I’m incredibly excited to be partnering with The American Legion for the 2024 INDYCAR season,” Lundqvist said. “To move on to the next chapter and to be connected to the veteran community makes it even more special. A major thank you to Dean (Kessel) and The American Legion for this opportunity. I am privileged to be able to represent such an impactful organization and I am looking forward to our work together with ‘Be The One.’”
The American Legion and Chip Ganassi Racing have maintained a partnership since 2021. The team has presented The American Legion primary livery for 28 races in that span, accounting for 12 podiums and four wins. Lundqvist will join a world-class roster of drivers to have represented The American Legion behind the wheel, including defending Rookie of the Year Marcus Armstrong, seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson, Indianapolis 500 winner and INDYCAR SERIES champion Tony Kanaan and two-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion Alex Palou.
“I am very much looking forward to Linus getting on the track to show the kind of driver that we all believe he will be,” team owner Chip Ganassi said. “In addition, I believe Linus’ off-track presence will match well with the strong partnership we have with The American Legion. Over the last three seasons it has been a tremendous honor to work alongside The American Legion in our shared mission to save veteran lives. So, stepping into 2024 with Linus piloting the 8 car our expectations are rather high, and I am very much looking forward to our first official race together in March.”
The American Legion and Chip Ganassi Racing work together on a variety of initiatives, including Giving Tuesday and “Be The One.”
Giving Tuesday, a global generosity movement to help transform communities across the world, is Nov. 28. Chip Ganassi Racing encourages fans to think about The American Legion as a preferred charity during this season of generosity.
Chip Ganassi Racing and The American Legion will launch their “12 Days of #VetsGiving” on Giving Tuesday, when 12 unique prize packages will be listed for auction with a buy-it-now option, as well. #VetsGiving was first launched by the team in 2022, and nearly $40,000 was raised. All proceeds will go directly to The American Legion.
“We are thrilled to build off the championship season with Chip Ganassi Racing and form this new relationship with a talented young driver in Linus Lundqvist,” said Dean Kessell, The American Legion chief marketing officer. “Linus’ enthusiasm and personality stood out to our team since day one, and I am confident that he will be a quality ambassador for our organization and the Be The One platform. Our collective focus continues to extend beyond the racetrack, and we will continue to lead the charge to end veteran suicide.”
The 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season starts Sunday, March 10 with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding.