Marco Andretti, scion of the renowned Andretti racing dynasty, is set to embark on his 20th attempt to conquer the Indianapolis 500 in 2025. This enduring quest is fueled by the memory of his agonizingly close second-place finish in his rookie year, 2006, where victory slipped through his fingers just 200 yards from the finish line. The grandson of racing legend Mario Andretti and son of former IndyCar champion Michael Andretti, Marco carries the weight of a rich racing heritage as he continues to pursue the elusive Indy 500 title. This pursuit represents not just a personal ambition but also a continuation of the Andretti family’s storied legacy at the Brickyard.
Andretti’s 2025 Indy 500 campaign will see him piloting the No. 98 Andretti Global Honda, emblazoned with the MAPEI livery. MAPEI, a global leader in the chemical products industry for construction, returns as a key sponsor for Andretti, marking the second year of their partnership. This continued collaboration underscores the shared values of performance and precision that resonate between the racing team and the company. The sponsorship signifies not just financial backing but also a testament to the Andretti brand’s enduring appeal and competitive spirit.
MAPEI’s involvement extends beyond Andretti’s individual endeavor, encompassing a broader partnership with the Andretti Global team. In addition to sponsoring Andretti’s No. 98 car for the iconic race, MAPEI will also serve as an official partner for Kyle Kirkwood, driver of the No. 27 Honda, throughout the entire 2025 IndyCar Series season. This expanded partnership reflects MAPEI’s growing commitment to IndyCar racing and their confidence in the Andretti Global team. It also provides MAPEI with increased visibility and engagement opportunities within the motorsport arena.
The partnership between Andretti Global and MAPEI is built on a strong foundation established during the 2024 season. The initial collaboration proved mutually beneficial, with MAPEI gaining significant exposure through their presence on Kirkwood’s car throughout the season and Andretti’s car during the 2024 Indianapolis 500. This successful inaugural year paved the way for an expanded partnership in 2025, solidifying MAPEI’s position as a key player within the Andretti IndyCar program. Both parties are optimistic about the potential for continued success and shared growth in the upcoming season.
Andretti’s return to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for his 20th attempt carries significant weight, both personally and for the Andretti family. His impressive record at the Speedway, including a pole position in 2020, four top-three finishes, and eight top-ten results, underscores his consistent competitiveness and potential to finally claim victory. He will aim to leverage this experience and his familiarity with the track to navigate the challenging 500-mile race and fulfill his long-held aspiration. This milestone start also represents a significant achievement in his career, solidifying his place among the Indy 500’s most persistent and dedicated competitors.
Meanwhile, Kyle Kirkwood, entering his fourth NTT IndyCar Series season, will also carry the MAPEI banner throughout the 2025 campaign. He aims to build on the momentum gained from his 2024 season, which saw him achieve five top-five finishes, a podium appearance, and a pole position in the season finale. Kirkwood’s burgeoning talent and growing consistency make him a driver to watch, and the continued support from MAPEI provides a stable platform for him to further develop his skills and compete for race wins. This partnership represents a vote of confidence in Kirkwood’s potential and his ability to deliver strong results for both the team and the sponsor.
