Hinchcliffe announces promotional deal with Honda of Canada

The Mayor celebrating his epic win last season in Sao Paolo.

(Editor's Note: The relationship between Honda Canada and James Hinchcliffe outlined in the press release below is a very important one for IndyCar going forward. Hinchcliffe combines the charisma and talent to become Canada's next great driving hero. Plus, with a number of talented Canucks in the ladder system, Hinchcliffe is perfectly positioned to spearhead a revival of North American open wheel in the racing hotbed that is The Great White. Does IndyCar have the wherewithal to capitalize on this opportunity of a star driver partnering with a major manufacturer to grow their product and brand? We doubt it. But hey, IMS sure does look great covered in snow.)

TORONTO, ON (February 13, 2014) – It’s the middle of winter, but Canadians have reason to get excited for the upcoming IndyCar season. Today, Honda Canada and James Hinchcliffe entered into a one year partnership that will see the ‘Mayor of Hinchtown’ working with Honda to promote the Honda brand across Canada. Hinchcliffe will be featured in various Honda product advertising and promotions throughout the year, including the Honda Indy Toronto.

Hinchcliffe made a surprise appearance and participated in the official Canadian unveiling of the 2015 Honda Fit at the Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS) in Toronto. He was welcomed to the stage while seated behind the wheel of a new Fit before the agreement was announced to media who were on-hand for CIAS press day.

“We’re so pleased to welcome James to the Honda family and I think I speak on behalf of all race fans when I say that the new season can’t start soon enough," said Dave Gardner, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Honda Canada Inc. “Honda Indy Toronto is a landmark event and it’s fantastic to be working with such a talented, not to mention, local driver."

Hinchcliffe will pilot the Honda-powered, #27 United Fiber & Data IndyCar for Andretti Autosport during the 2014 season, which kicks-off in St. Petersburg, Florida on March 30th.

“This is shaping up to be a huge year and I’d like to thank Honda Canada for their support," said James Hinchcliffe. “It’s been a long off-season and I’m ready to get back out there. We’ve got a great car, great team and fans can expect big things."

Honda Canada P.R.