From Realtà Mapei n° 39 - 12/13/2024

Fast-Track Alliance

MAPEI and Andretti Global: Driving innovation and excellence

In the high-octane world of motorsports, partnerships are forged on mutual respect, shared goals and a commitment to excellence. This year, MAPEI is proud to announce our primary partnership with Andretti Global, a powerhouse in the world of racing. Highlighting this dynamic partnership was MAPEI’s primary sponsorship of Marco Andretti’s thrilling run in the #98 MAPEI / CURB Honda at the Indianapolis 500. The sponsorship also consists of Kyle Kirkwood’s ongoing NTT INDYCAR SERIES season in the #27 AutoNation Honda, which includes MAPEI as a featured sponsor.

The genesis of a true collaboration

The partnership between MAPEI and Andretti Global is a natural fit. Both organizations are leaders in their respective fields, known for pushing boundaries and setting new standards. MAPEI – a global leader in the production of adhesives, sealants and chemical products for the construction industry – brings its reputation for quality and innovation to the racing arena. Andretti Global, with its storied history and numerous racing victories, embodies the spirit of competition and excellence that resonates with MAPEI’s core values.

This collaboration aims to merge the world of cutting-edge construction solutions with the thrilling spectacle of motorsports, creating a teamwork that enhances the visibility and reach of both brands.

Marco Andretti’s Indy 500 run

Marco Andretti

The Indy 500, often dubbed “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” is a cornerstone event on the motorsports calendar. This year, Marco Andretti took to the track in the striking #98 MAPEI-themed car, capturing the attention of fans and competitors alike. The iconic MAPEI branding with its bold blue and sleek design stood out on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, symbolizing the brand’s commitment to precision and excellence.

Marco Andretti’s participation in the running of the 108th Indianapolis 500 was more than just a race; it was a celebration of his heritage, his own successful career, and the culmination of months of preparation and dedication. With MAPEI as his primary sponsor, Andretti showcased not only his driving skills but also the synergy between two giants in their fields. The car’s performance mirrored MAPEI’s values – speed, reliability and resilience – qualities that are essential both on the racetrack and in construction.

Although Andretti faced stiff competition, and ultimately was caught in a race-ending spin-out, his presence in the #98 MAPEI-themed car added a layer of excitement and anticipation to the event. His run at the Indy 500 was a testament to his skill and the strong support from MAPEI, further cementing the partnership’s impact on the racing world.

Kyle Kirkwood’s INDYCAR season

Kyle Kirkwood

While Marco Andretti’s Indy 500 run was a highlight, MAPEI’s involvement in motorsports extends throughout the 2024-2025 INDYCAR season, prominently featuring as a sponsor on Kyle Kirkwood’s #27 car. Kirkwood, a rising star in the racing world, has been turning heads with his impressive performances and consistent results. The #27 car, adorned with MAPEI branding, represents the ongoing commitment to excellence and the drive for success.

Kirkwood’s season has been marked by remarkable moments and notable finishes, including second place in the Streets of Toronto race. His driving style, characterized by both precision and aggression, aligns perfectly with MAPEI’s ethos of delivering high-performance solutions. Each race is a showcase of skill and strategy, with MAPEI playing a vital role in supporting Kirkwood’s ambitions and celebrating his achievements. Kirkwood finished the 2024 INDYCAR season with the pole-position win at Nashville Superspeedway and ranked at Number Seven in the series. The partnership with Kirkwood is more than just a sponsorship; it’s a collaborative effort to push the boundaries of what’s possible in racing. MAPEI’s involvement provides not only financial backing but also a platform to engage with fans and share the excitement of each race. Through social media, fan interactions and special events, MAPEI and Kirkwood are creating memorable experiences that resonate with audiences and build lasting connections.

The impact of sponsorship

Sponsorship in motorsports goes beyond mere branding; it’s about creating meaningful partnerships that drive mutual success. For MAPEI, supporting Andretti Global and its drivers is an opportunity to align with a team that shares its passion for excellence and innovation. This partnership enables MAPEI to reach new audiences, engage with fans, and demonstrate its commitment to high-performance solutions in a dynamic and exciting context.

The visibility gained through the partnership with Andretti Global extends MAPEI’s reach far beyond traditional advertising. The thrill of racing, combined with the prestige of events like the Indy 500 and the NTT INDYCAR series, offers a unique platform to showcase MAPEI’s brand and products. Each race, each victory and each conquered challenge is a testament to the strength of the partnership and the shared values of determination, resilience and excellence.

For Andretti Global, having a partner like MAPEI brings added credibility and support to their racing endeavors. The resources and backing provided by MAPEI help the team focus on what they do best: Racing to win. This creates a win-win scenario, where both MAPEI and Andretti Global can thrive and achieve their respective goals.

Mario Andretti’s inspirational appearance

Adding to the excitement and strengthening the bond between MAPEI and Andretti Global was the appearance of racing legend Mario Andretti at MAPEI’s 2024 Sales Conference. Mario Andretti – Marco’s grandfather, the head of the famed racing royal family, and a name synonymous with racing excellence – shared his philosophies on innovation, leadership and the drive to succeed. His presence was a source of inspiration, not only for MAPEI employees but for everyone associated with the brand.

Mario Andretti’s career is a testament to perseverance, skill and a relentless pursuit of excellence – not to mention love of Italian design — all qualities that MAPEI embodies in its operations. His stories and insights provided invaluable lessons on the importance of pushing boundaries and striving for greatness. This inspirational appearance further solidified the partnership, showcasing the alignment of values and goals between MAPEI and the Andretti family.

Looking ahead

As the INDYCAR season progresses, the partnership between MAPEI and Andretti Global continues to evolve and strengthen. The successes achieved thus far are just the beginning. With each race, the bond between MAPEI, Andretti Global, Marco Andretti and Kyle Kirkwood grows stronger, fueled by shared ambitions and a commitment to excellence.

The future holds exciting prospects for this partnership. Continued collaboration will bring new opportunities to innovate and to engage with fans. MAPEI’s involvement in the racing world will inspire new generations of enthusiasts and professionals, showcasing the brand’s dedication to performance, quality and innovation through 2024 and 2025.

As the season unfolds, fans and supporters can look forward to more thrilling races, remarkable performances, and the continued success of MAPEI and Andretti Global. Together, they are not just competing; they are setting new standards and inspiring excellence in everything they do.

For more information on MAPEI’s partnership with Andretti Global and to follow the exciting journeys of Marco Andretti and Kyle Kirkwood, visit our Website and stay connected with our latest updates and news. The race for excellence is on… and MAPEI, along with Andretti Global, is leading the way.

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