MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Nov. 15, 2017) -  NASCAR, more than any other sport, is driven by corporate sponsorship.  Our corporate partners are intertwined so deeply in our team and driver brands that they are often inseparable.  Brand logos cover team equipment, driver uniforms and the race car itself.  There are a few fortunate drivers in our sport who get to align themselves with companies that not only support them financially through sponsorship dollars, but also establish a connection that in turn enhances and promotes the driver’s brand.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. has been privileged to enjoy the support of some of the most powerful and recognizable brands in the world.  These brands have leveraged Dale’s unmatched popularity and authenticity to create iconic campaigns and solidify him as one of sports marketing’s stalwarts.

From the first time he stepped into his NASCAR Cup Chevrolet with the Budweiser script emblazoned across the hood to being “forged in the fires of racing” alongside Goodyear to a suspect passing of the torch to “endorsementor” Dewey Ryder, "Golden Years Dale" will step out of his car for the final time and into the next phase of his career with many of these partners still alongside him.

In addition to expressing thanks to the fans, teammates, families and tracks that have shaped his career, this year’s #Appreci88ion campaign has allowed Dale to reflect on the support of his sponsors.  Our gratitude for these partners and the support they’ve shown goes beyond words.  We are overwhelmed by our partners’ support and truly appreciative of the relationships that continue to grow.

Many of these partners have dedicated time, energy and resources to develop compelling content paying tribute to Dale.  These incredible pieces showcase the result of two brands – a corporation and an athlete endorser – aligning in a genuine and natural way to create something powerful.

Mountain Dew:

Dale has had great success while racing for Mountain Dew and a hell of a time doing it.  Mountain Dew’s first spot, “Blue Eyes”, featuring teammate Chase Elliott and owner Rick Hendrick, is a celebration of Dale by his teammates, fans, legendary voices in the sport (MRN Radio calls), and NASCAR colleagues who are thanking him for an amazing time. Additionally, there is a nod from Dale to thank JR Nation for its support over the years.

In their uniquely Mountain Dew follow-up, “Bye, Dale,” Dew partners with Dewey Ryder, legendary spokes-athlete-lebrity, played by Danny McBride, to send Dale Jr. off into retirement.

Nationwide:

Nationwide has been on Dale’s side for more than 25 years.  In their spot, “Finish Line,” Nationwide showcases how the journey wasn’t all about the man behind the wheel but the fans, friends, family and partners who were on his side from the first lap to the final checkered flag.

Chevrolet:

In their tribute to a legend, “Moving On,” Chevrolet tells the story of Junior’s life in racing by leaning on the lyrics of “This Ride” by Shovels & Rope.  This tribute is a journey through Junior’s life in racing, which unlike most racecar drivers, started the day he was born.

NASCAR:

NASCAR’s spot, simply titled “Thank You,” features members of JR Nation.  Fans, team members, current drivers, legendary drivers, even celebrity friends and colleagues of Dale Jr. show their love, gratitude and respect for one of the sport’s legends.

Budweiser:

The partner that started it all comes back to take the Budweiser car out for one last ride to celebrate Dale’s incredible career and the fans who kept him going.  Featuring one of Dale’s favorite bands, Lord Huron, “The Night We Met” tells us it’s not about the finish line, but the ride, and thanks Dale for a legendary one.