Powering the Future: Ed Carpenter Racing Secures Vital Partnership with Heartland Food Products Group

In a strategic move that promises to bolster the financial stability and competitive edge of Ed Carpenter Racing, the team has welcomed Ted Gelov, the owner of Heartland Food Products Group, as a co-owner. This partnership not only strengthens the team's resources but also aligns with its vision for the future of the NTT IndyCar Series.

Securing the Future: A Transformative Partnership for Ed Carpenter Racing

Overcoming Budget Challenges: A Necessary Step for Sustained Success

Ed Carpenter Racing has faced its fair share of budget shortfalls in recent seasons, with the No. 21 Chevy formerly driven by Rinus VeeKay spending the majority of 2024 racing without primary sponsorship. This development underscores the need for the team to secure reliable financial backing to ensure its long-term viability and competitiveness. The addition of Ted Gelov and his Heartland Food Products Group as co-owners represents a significant step in addressing these challenges and positioning the team for sustained success.

Aligning Values and Vision: A Shared Commitment to Excellence

Ed Carpenter, the team's founder, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "IndyCar is growing and attracting high-caliber brands, and in Ted's case, also a strong business partner for our team. Ted will help us to continue to strive for excellence both on and off the track." This sentiment highlights the shared values and vision between the team and its new co-owner, a crucial factor in forging a successful and enduring partnership.

Expanding the Team's Branding Opportunities

As part of the agreement, Gelov's Splenda and Java House brands will be prominently featured on the Nos. 20 and 21 entries in the 2025 NTT IndyCar Series season. This integration of the team's own brands on the cars represents an exciting opportunity to further strengthen the team's identity and connect with fans and sponsors alike.

Strengthening the Indiana Connection

Gelov's Heartland Food Products Group is an Indiana-based company, and the partnership with Ed Carpenter Racing, another Indiana-based entity, underscores the team's commitment to supporting and representing the local community. This synergy between the team and its new co-owner is expected to resonate with fans and stakeholders alike, further solidifying the team's position within the state and the broader IndyCar ecosystem.

Anticipating the Future: Unveiling the 2025 Driver Lineup

As the team prepares for the 2025 season, the announcement of its driver lineup on Wednesday is eagerly anticipated. Fans and industry observers alike will be keen to see how the team's newfound financial stability and strengthened partnership will translate into on-track performance and the selection of its driving talent.

A Shared Vision for Success

For Gelov, the partnership with Ed Carpenter Racing represents a natural fit, as he expressed his excitement to contribute to the team's pursuit of success. "We are committed to the Indiana community and are extremely excited to continue that by joining Ed Carpenter Racing. I am ready to do my part to help Ed and ECR in any way we can to get on the podium and win races!"This strategic alliance between Ed Carpenter Racing and Heartland Food Products Group promises to be a game-changer, not only for the team's financial future but also for its competitive aspirations within the NTT IndyCar Series. As the team prepares to unveil its 2025 driver lineup, the anticipation and excitement surrounding this partnership continue to build, signaling a new era of success for Ed Carpenter Racing.