Acura Branding Returns to IndyCar with Ericsson in DC Race

Acura branding will be prominently displayed on Marcus Ericsson's #28 Andretti Global Honda Indy car for the upcoming Freedom 250 race in Washington D.C. This event marks Acura's fourth appearance in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES this season and coincides with both the 250th anniversary of America and Acura's 40th anniversary as a brand. The partnership with Andretti Global aims to connect Acura with a growing audience of motorsports fans.

Acura's Presence in the Freedom 250

The Freedom 250 is a unique event bringing the NTT INDYCAR SERIES to the streets of Washington D.C. Public interest in the race was substantial, with 250,000 applications received for the 100,000 available free tickets. Acura's participation highlights its 40-year history, having launched in America on March 27, 1986, as the first Japanese luxury automotive brand, introducing models like the Legend sedan and Integra.

This season, Acura-backed Honda-powered Indy cars have achieved two top-five finishes. Felix Rosenqvist secured pole position and finished second at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. Marcus Armstrong earned a fifth-place finish at the Indianapolis 500 and was recognized with the "Biggest Mover" award at Mid-Ohio, both while sporting Acura colors.

Marcus Ericsson's Street Circuit Expertise

Marcus Ericsson, the 2022 Indianapolis 500 winner, will pilot the Acura-branded entry. Ericsson has a strong record on street circuits, including a recent victory at the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy in Markham, Canada. His previous wins on street courses include Belle Isle, Detroit; Nashville; and St. Petersburg, Florida. Earlier this year, he also secured pole position on the streets of Arlington, Texas.

Ericsson has won two of the last four inaugural street circuit events in the IndyCar series, demonstrating his proficiency in this racing format. He will also make a special appearance at Chevy Chase Acura in Bethesda, Maryland, on Thursday, August 20th, from 3-5 PM, allowing fans to meet the driver.

Motorsports Engagement and Brand Strategy

Acura's continued involvement in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES aligns with a period of growing interest in motorsports. IndyCar viewership has seen significant increases, with a 17% rise compared to 2025 and a 49% increase over 2024 through July. The Road America race, for instance, attracted 1.8 million viewers, making it the most-watched non-Indy 500 race since 2011.

Hundy Liu, Acura's Marketing Brand Manager, stated that motorsports serves as a key platform to showcase the brand's "Precision Crafted Performance" philosophy and connect with a passionate fanbase. Jill Gregory, President of Andretti Global, noted that the partnership highlights the performance and innovation associated with the Honda family on a national stage.

Acura's decision to feature its branding on Marcus Ericsson's car for the Acura IndyCar Freedom 250 race underscores its strategy to leverage high-profile motorsports events. This initiative aims to celebrate significant anniversaries while engaging with a growing audience of racing enthusiasts and reinforcing the brand's performance image through the Acura IndyCar Freedom 250.