Andretti Global announced Jan. 23 that MAPEI, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of chemical products for the building industry, will serve as the primary partner for the No. 98 MAPEI / CURB Honda driven by Marco Andretti at the 108th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge.
Andretti will attempt to make his 19th Indianapolis 500 start on May 26, driving the No. 98 MAPEI / CURB Honda. He scored the pole position in 2020, four top-three finishes and eight top-10 results at the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval.
“It’s exciting for us to bring MAPEI into the Andretti family and provide them with their first experience in racing and the NTT INDYCAR SERIES,” Andretti Global CEO and Chairman Michael Andretti said. “It’s apparent that MAPEI shares our passion for maximizing performance and achievement, which will show through our partnership goals. The Indianapolis 500 is a marquee event, and we’re honored to welcome a new brand as the primary partner on the No. 98 at the ‘500.’”
In addition to being showcased at the “500,” MAPEI will serve as an official partner on the No. 27 AutoNation Honda driven by Kyle Kirkwood for the entire 2024 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season, starting with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg presented by RP Funding on March 10.
Kirkwood will represent the MAPEI branding on the No. 27 AutoNation Honda in his third NTT INDYCAR SERIES season, hoping to build on a strong sophomore season in 2023 that saw the Florida native take his first two career INDYCAR SERIES wins, first career INDYCAR SERIES pole position and seven top-10 finishes.
Known for exceptional products and system solutions in the construction industry, MAPEI brings its legacy of innovation to the world of motorsports. The partnership with Andretti represents a fusion of precision engineering and racing prowess, highlighting MAPEI’s commitment to performance excellence.
“MAPEI is a global frontrunner in the manufacturing of products specifically tailored for the building industry,” said Luigi Di Geso, Mapei North America president and CEO. “Renowned for our commitment to innovation, quality and sustainability, MAPEI’s products have been instrumental in shaping landmarks and infrastructure worldwide.
“And not only are we a global leader, but we are also family-owned and operated. That is why this partnership with Andretti Global has such resonance for us. At heart, we are two families dedicated to pursuing excellence. This venture into motorsports for the 2024-2025 season with Andretti Global is a continuation of MAPEI’s dedication to forging dynamic partnerships that resonate with our drive for innovation, precision and excellence. We are excited about this collaboration and look forward to a year of unparalleled performance.”