10 Wild Sponsorships That Actually Happened in NASCAR
NASCAR has always relied heavily on sponsorships, but some partnerships have been unexpected, bizarre, or downright hilarious, and they have gone down in history. From fast food chains to quirky businesses, NASCAR has seen it all. In this article, we'll look at 10 outrageous sponsorships that actually occurred and left fans talking for years.
- Tricia Quitales
- 4 min read
NASCAR sponsorships can be serious business, but the companies behind the cars aren’t always typical. Over the years, the sport has seen some sponsorship deals that have surprised fans. Whether it was a silly logo, an odd partnership, or a brand that had no business being on a race car, these 10 sponsorships are legendary. NASCAR is known for pushing the envelope, and these wild sponsorships certainly did that.
1. Taco Bell & the #77 Car
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In the late 1990s, Taco Bell sponsored a car for the #77 team, bringing a fast-food behemoth to the track. Although the combination of tacos and racing may appear odd, the collaboration was surprisingly successful. It even resulted in some entertaining ad campaigns that fans still remember.
2. Viagra on the #6 Car
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When Viagra sponsored Mark Martin’s #6 car, it drew some attention. The blue pill logo became iconic during its time on the car, eliciting numerous laughs and discussions. This sponsorship stood out as one of the most memorable and distinctive in NASCAR history.
3. Coors Light and the Number 3 Car
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Dale Earnhardt’s Coors Light car is one of NASCAR’s most iconic combinations. Coors Light’s prominent sponsorship of the most iconic race car of all time made this partnership stand out. It worked, and Earnhardt’s car became inextricably linked to the popular beer brand.
4. Pizza Hut and the #5 Car
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In the mid-1990s, Pizza Hut sponsored Terry Labonte’s #5 car, which appeared to be a natural fit for the casual dining giant. Fans received an excellent mix of pizza, racing, and the occasional discount coupon. In the world of NASCAR, the collaboration was both enjoyable and successful.
5. Burger King and the Number One Car
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Burger King sponsored Steve Park’s #1 car, creating a memorable partnership that made fans laugh. The King’s quirky mascot was all over the car, making it difficult to miss. The fast food chain’s logo inspired some of the most vibrant race moments.
6. Big Red Soda & the #4 Car
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Before soda companies became a major part of NASCAR, Big Red appeared on the #4 car. The bright red soda logo stood out among other sponsors, adding flavor to the sport. It’s one of those sponsorships that has faded into NASCAR history, but it was certainly enjoyable while it lasted.
7. M&M’s and the #18 Car
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M&M’s sponsorship of Kyle Busch’s #18 car is one of NASCAR’s longest-running and most recognizable. The candy’s colorful logo on the car and the fun commercials added a whimsical element to the sport. Who could forget the giant M&M characters on their way to the track?
8. The “Bristol Motor Speedway” and the No. 16 Car
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In a unique twist, Bristol Motor Speedway sponsored a car in 2004—racing fans supporting racing. This sponsorship was a lighthearted way to promote the iconic track, and it wasn’t your typical corporate logo on a vehicle. It stood out because the track itself became a sponsor.
9. Red Bull and the #83 Car
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Red Bull’s entry into NASCAR with the #83 car was a wild move at the time. Known for its energy drinks, the brand took a daring approach to racing, complete with colorful, eye-catching vehicles. Their entry into NASCAR was controversial, but it produced some memorable moments.
10. The “Army” sponsoring Dale Earnhardt Jr.
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The US Army’s sponsorship of Dale Earnhardt Jr. was an unusual combination of patriotism and motorsport. The Army’s bold logo and messaging were all over Earnhardt’s car, and the collaboration injected new energy into NASCAR’s traditional sponsorships. It was a surprise move for fans, but it had a long-term impact on NASCAR’s marketing strategy.