Mazda named new presenting sponsor of Rotax Max Challenge
Mazda’s reputation in the motorsports community is well-known, with involvement in auto racing stretching from grassroots amateur racing in the SCCA and NASA, to series such as Formula Drift, Grand-Am, the American LeMans Series, and the Atlantic Championship powered by Mazda.
Mazda’s involvement in the Rotax Max Challenge sponsorship is an extension of its 2007 karting initiative. In 2007, Mazda sponsored the America’s Team at the Rotax Grand Finals in Dubai, and in addition to its new sponsorship with Rotax, will once again sponsor the America’s Team. Additionally, the Rotax Max Challenge will have a presence at select events at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca throughout 2008.
“Needless to say, we couldn’t be more thrilled about our expanded association with Mazda," said Joe Ramos, President of SSC Racing. “Mazda is a partner who is going to take an active roll in the promotion of the Rotax Max Challenge."
Along with the announcement, SSC Racing has unveiled the new Rotax Max Challenge logo, reflecting the series’ expanded relationship with Mazda.
“Mazda’s Motorsports strategy is built on grassroots racing and giving drivers of all ages the opportunity to grow their careers in the business of motorsports," said John Doonan, Manager, Motorsports Team Development, Mazda North American Operations. “With the transitions that started taking place with regard to open wheel reunification over the last several months, we did our utmost to make sure than any and all Mazda series that were impacted (whether it was losing entire race events, adjusting television packages, and compiling prizes and awards, etc.) would remain strong for participants.
“The Rotax Max Challenge was certainly one of those elements that was impacted by losing the Champ Car title sponsorship. Our experience with the Rotax community during our 2007 karting initiative was very positive. So, when we learned of the changes, we called Joe Ramos and his team and let them know we were behind them and wanted to increase our involvement. It was pretty simple to increase our involvement with Rotax for 2008, but over the long term, Mazda wants to provide ladder opportunities for those who wish to grow their careers in motorsports and continue to support those who wish to stay at the grassroots levels."