INDYCAR: NAPA returns with Rossi for seven races

Alexander Rossi will wear the same blue and yellow colors of NAPA Auto Parts he drove into Victory Lane at the 2016 Indy 500 in an expanded relationship between the automotive retailer and the Andretti Herta Autosport team.

Rossi's No. 98 Honda will carry co-primary sponsorship from the brand to open the season at St. Petersburg, and have the company return for Long Beach, the Indianapolis Grand Prix and Indy 500, Road America, Watkins Glen and Sonoma.

"NAPA is a storied, American brand and I couldn't be more proud to announce our partnership is continuing," said team owner Michael Andretti. "We were pleased to have previously announced that Alexander will be returning for the full season, and now to be able to confirm that NAPA is back on board – what a great way for us to start 2017. Our relationship with NAPA came together quickly during our Month of May program last year, and it wasn't long before the partnership was written into history books. We can't wait to add a few more pages to history together."

Rossi was understandably enthused about the growing relationship with NAPA.

"Confirming NAPA Auto Parts is the perfect way for us to start off 2017," he said. "NAPA is one of the most recognized brands in the U.S., and with over 6,000 stores, they touch every corner of our nation. In 2016, we had historic success together in the Verizon IndyCar Series, however there is still much more to accomplish. I'm proud to have NAPA back on board the No. 98 and am motivated to carry our momentum together through 2017."