Mahindra partners with Stewart-Haas Racing to back Briscoe's #14 in NASCAR

Having competed in the FIM Motorcycle World Championship and FIA Formula E Championship as a manufacture, Mahindra is making its foray into American motor racing as a sponsor. Its North American division announced a partnership with Stewart-Haas Racing team.

Mahindra will support Chase Briscoe during the 2022 NASCAR Cup Series with the #14 Ford Mustang featuring the 'Mahindra Tractors' logo in the red, black and white liveried car. The NASCAR team is co-owned by Tony Stewart and Gene Haas - the latter also running its F1 team.

The new liveried #14 Mahindra Tractors Ford Mustang will debut in the Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum on February 5-6 in Los Angeles, in a non-points event. Post that, they will traditional start the 2022 season with the Daytona 500 on February 20 at Daytona International Speedway.

“NASCAR, Stewart-Haas Racing and Mahindra’s shared values form a strong platform for us to connect with existing and potential customers. Our partnership with SHR provides an opportunity to tell our story to the wide audience of NASCAR fans who enjoy the outdoors and working their land,” said Viren Popli, President and CEO, Mahindra Ag North America and Mahindra Automotive North America.

“Chase Briscoe and Tony Stewart are relatable men of great character who have worked hard to get where they are today. Like our dealers, they have a tough work ethic and the drive to be successful. We are proud to have them representing the brand. In fact, Tony is already a Mahindra owner and has been putting his 5145 tractor to good use on his ranch in Indiana."

“The NASCAR Cup Series is the toughest racing I’ve ever been a part of. It’s so competitive,” said 2021 rookie of the year, Briscoe said. “I learned so much this year and I really can’t wait to apply it all next season. I’m incredibly honored to represent Mahindra Tractors and all of its dealers. We both want to continue to grow and perform – me on the racetrack and Mahindra in the marketplace. It’s a true partnership that’s valuable to both of us.”

Meanwhile, Stewart added: "Chase has earned his spot in the Cup Series. He was relentless. Anytime he was challenged, he never backed down, and that’s the way you have to be at this level. Chase is just a really hard worker. He’s earned everything that’s come his way and then made the most of each opportunity.

"That’s what has always impressed me about him, and I think that’s what impressed Mahindra Tractors. They’re a really good fit. This is a very rewarding partnership and I’m proud to be a Mahindra customer. When it comes to the 14 car, I obviously have a passion for having dirt drivers behind the wheel. It’s special, but also practical.

"With the lower horsepower package they have in the Cup Series, you have to run these cars a lot freer, and I think that suits a driver with a dirt background." Apart from sponsoring the NASCAR drive, Mahindra Tractors will also support Briscoe in Chili Bowl Nationals he is taking part in.

The event is slated for January 10-15 in Tusla Expo Raceway inside the SageNet Center, with Mahindra Tractors sponsoring Briscoe's No. 5 midget. "Dirt-track racing makes me a better Cup Series driver,” he said Briscoe. It forces you to adapt. You have to run different lines to get the most out of your car and you have to do it quickly.

“When I won my first Xfinity Series race on the Roval at Charlotte, I drove it like a dirt track. I made sure to not spin the rear tires to where I was good at the end of a run. Running the Chili Bowl is fun, but it also keeps you sharp. It’ll be a great way to kick off our first season with Mahindra Tractors."

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[Image courtesy: Stewart-Haas Racing]