MOORESVILLE, N.C. – Marco Andretti’s return to the Indianapolis 500 in May will also support an effort to help raise food for those who are struggling during challenging times.
Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana, with support from partner Group1001, will be the primary sponsor of the No. 98 Honda with last year’s Indianapolis 500 pole sitter behind the wheel. The entry is official listed as Andretti Herta-Haupert Autosport with Marco Andretti & Curb Agajanian for the 105th Running of the Indianapolis 500.
After announcing that he would be stepping away from full-time NTT IndyCar Series competition and refocusing his racing career after the 2020 season, Andretti will make his only NTT IndyCar Series start of this year during the Indianapolis 500. He will attempt to make his 16th start on the iconic oval and hopes to build upon his 2020 pole position and numerous competitive finishes over the years to get his first Indianapolis 500 win.
“I’m ready to get back on track at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway this May and I’m very excited that I get to do that while representing such a great organization like Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana and Group1001 to help make sure No One Runs On Empty,” Andretti said. “I have put all of my focus into winning the Indianapolis 500 this year and I feel that the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is where I bring the most to the table as a driver. I have come so close to winning over the years and after winning the pole last year, I’m more determined than ever to get an Indianapolis 500 win.”
The No. 98 and Andretti will debut on the first day of Indianapolis 500 practice in the month of May but will first be seen taking part in a two-day, 22-car test at Indianapolis Motor Speedway Thursday and Friday.
The 2021 No One Runs on Empty Indianapolis 500 effort is made possible with the support of Group1001.
Group1001 is a financial services group including Gainbridge, the presenting sponsor of the Indianapolis 500. Its mission is to help drive positive social change and help feed the hungry.
“It’s been an honor to team up with organizations like Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana and Group1001 to help drive out hunger in our hometown,” said Michael Andretti, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Andretti Autosport. “It’s been a tough year for a lot of people and the work that Gleaners is doing during this pandemic has been impressive to say the least. We’re proud to be able to provide a platform for them to not only raise awareness but also elevate their mission through our IndyCar program.”
According to Melissa Jacobs, Senior Vice President of Sponsorship and Corporate Communication, Group1001, the effort spans more than 25 states and has positively impacted 200,000 kids and families.
“Food is the fuel that drives success and Group1001 is honored to support this No One Runs on Empty campaign with Gleaners and Andretti Autosport to help lessen the worry and burdens of Indiana families,” Jacobs said.