INDYCAR: Gallagher & Co. backing for Chilton

International insurance brokerage and risk management services firm Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has partnered with Chip Ganassi Racing Teams to back the No. 8 Verizon IndyCar Series entry to be driven by rookie Max Chilton.

Gallagher, headquartered in Itasca, Ill., has operations in 31 countries and offers client-service capabilities in more than 150 countries around the world through a network of correspondent brokers and consultants. This season with CGRT will be the company’s first foray into the world of motorsport partnerships.

“Racing has tremendous global appeal and millions of fans around the world,” said Richard C. Tallo, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. “Numerous parallels exist between racecar driving and managing risk. Both in business and on the racetrack, teams have to quickly assess, calculate and manage risk if success is to be achieved.

“For nearly 90 years, Gallagher has built a strong and well-respected global insurance brokerage services and risk management business. Each day Gallagher employees help our clients mitigate and manage their risks so they are free to grow their businesses. With this exciting sport and Ganassi’s racing leadership, Gallagher will have the ability to leverage a range of marketing activities to further expand our brand awareness.”

Chilton was named driver of the No. 8 Chevrolet after making 35 starts in Formula 1 from 2013-'14 for the Marussia Formula 1 Team. In 2015, the British driver contested a partial season in the Indy Lights Championship for Carlin, scoring a win, six podium and 10 top-five finishes.

“Our organization truly represents a global team effort with 17 drivers from 10 countries, in 13 cars across six series,” said Steve Lauletta, president of Chip Ganassi Racing Teams. “We have teams competing in North America and around the world throughout the racing season on any given weekend, and the most diverse driver lineup anywhere in the sport. We’re excited that Gallagher chose our team to create a new partnership with, and we’re looking forward to bringing another new global brand into the Verizon IndyCar Series.”