INDYCAR: Title sponsor named for Gateway race

The Bommarito Automotive Group has been named title sponsor of the Verizon IndyCar Series race at Gateway Motorsports Park on Aug. 26.

The St. Louis Business Journal reports the two-year deal is worth more than $1 million. The Bommarito Automotive Group 500, named for the largest retailer of new and used vehicles in the St. Louis region according to the Business Journal, will mark the Verizon IndyCar Series' return to the 1.25-mile oval for the first time since 2003.

"We are pleased to announce that Bommarito Automotive Group will join Gateway Motorsports Park in the production of our inaugural INDYCAR event as the title sponsor," said Curtis Francois, owner and CEO of Gateway Motorsports Park. "This is a tremendous event for the St. Louis region and no one knows our town better than the folks at Bommarito. They are a progressive group, known for a high standard of quality and excellence. It's the same standard of on-track action and family-friendly experience that we look forward to delivering with our landmark event."

Gateway hosted CART from 1997-2000 before the Indy Racing League tried its hand between 2001 and 2003 (pictured). Event winners include Paul Tracy, Michael Andretti, Alex Zanardi and Helio Castroneves. This year's race weekend will also feature Indy Lights presented by Cooper Tires and the Pro Mazda Championship presented by Cooper Tires.

"We are excited to partner with Gateway Motorsports Park and the Verizon IndyCar Series," said John Bommarito, president of Bommarito Automotive Group, which has served the area for 45 years. "When approached by Gateway about the return of INDYCAR to St. Louis, we felt it was important to have a major St. Louis company step forward and support the return of open-wheel racing to the region. We are extremely proud to be the title sponsor of the Bommarito Automotive Group 500."