Nationwide Insurance To Replace Busch Beer As Series Sponsor In 2008

[PressRoom-GFN]

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 3, 2007) – Nationwide Insurance will replace Anheuser-Busch as the title sponsor of the NASCAR circuit that has been known as the Busch Series for 26 years, beginning in 2008, NASCAR officials announced Wednesday.

Nationwide Insurance will also become the official auto, home and life insurance provider of NASCAR.

The seven-year agreement gives Nationwide Insurance exclusive rights to the circuit that will be known as the Nationwide Series.

“Nationwide Insurance is an ideal partner for NASCAR, advocating safe driving, and already serving millions of NASCAR fans with its auto, health, and life insurance,” said NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France. “The company has a real passion for NASCAR, which will benefit our fans and all the participants in our industry.”

The NASCAR Nationwide Series is broadcast on ESPN2 and ABC, and is the third highest-rated regular-season sport on cable television. Viewership in 2007 to date vs. 2000 is up 52 percent. The 2005 and 2006 seasons were the most viewed in the series history.

Nationwide Insurance, which is expected to generate approximately $200 million in annual media exposure through its sponsorship, is already serving NASCAR fans with auto, home, and life insurance. Nationwide Insurance has had a partnership with track operator Speedway Motorsports Inc. for the past eight years, providing “On Your Side” information guides, transportation services and fan pit stops.

NASCAR fans are more likely to feel loyal towards an insurance company that is a sponsor, according to an ESPN Sports Poll. Additionally, NASCAR fans are more likely to have automobiles, be homeowners, and have children in the household, according to Simmons National Consumer Survey research.

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