Chevrolet Extends Partnership with Detroit GP through 2016
After returning to Verizon IndyCar Series competition as an engine manufacturer in 2012, Chevrolet raced the extra mile, becoming title sponsor of its hometown event as the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix made its return to the Motor City for the first time in four years. With capacity crowds and exciting racing on the physical street circuit, the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix has continued to grow over the last two years. The event is poised for its best weekend yet as the Raceway at Belle Isle Park will host seven races and three days of non-stop entertainment, May 30-June 1.
“We are very excited to continue our partnership with Chevrolet to build on the momentum we’ve established with this wonderful event," said Bud Denker, Chairman of the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix. “Without the support of Chevrolet, we would not have been able to bring world-class auto racing back to the Motor City and with an extension of this partnership we know the future certainly looks bright on Belle Isle for the Grand Prix."
Racing in the shadows of Chevrolet global headquarters at the Renaissance Center, the Grand Prix has helped Chevrolet flex its racing muscle in the series that compete on the 2.3-mile Belle Isle circuit. With Chevy power well represented in the Verizon IndyCar Series and the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship as well as Cadillacs and Camaros racing in the Pirelli World Challenge Series, GM has certainly showcased the diversity and strength of its motorsports and development programs at the Grand Prix.
“We’re pleased to continue our partnership as the title sponsor of the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix and to showcase Belle Isle, our city, our state … and Chevrolet racing … to the world right in our own back yard," said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet U.S. vice president of performance vehicles and motorsports. “This event, which provides an opportunity for us to connect with current and prospective customers and delivers great action for our race fans, also results in a significant economic impact to the City of Detroit and the region."
Since returning to IndyCar competition in 2012, Chevrolet has experienced tremendous success. Chevy won the manufacturers championship in both 2012 and 2013 and captured the driver’s title in 2012 with Ryan Hunter-Reay. Last season, Tony Kanaan won the Indianapolis 500 for Chevrolet.
After helping to bring racing back to Detroit, Chevy also worked with Grand Prix officials to help make improvements to Belle Isle. Over $2.7 million worth of improvements have been made to Belle Isle by the Grand Prix team since 2012. The Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix also became the first event to host a Verizon IndyCar Series doubleheader race weekend and the island will host two series races on back-to-back days again in a little over a week with the Chevrolet Indy Dual in Detroit presented by Quicken Loans.