The NTT IndyCar Series is revving up for an exciting weekend at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, promising not only thrilling racing action but also a visual feast for fans of car liveries. This year’s lineup of special liveries is being hailed as one of the most impressive in recent memory, with teams pulling out all the stops to dazzle on the track.
This development follows a trend in motorsports where aesthetics play a significant role in team branding and fan engagement. As the series returns to Mid-Ohio, fans are eagerly anticipating the debut of these eye-catching designs.
Meyer Shank Racing’s Tribute to Rock Legends
Leading the charge is Meyer Shank Racing with a livery that pays homage to the legendary rock band Black Sabbath and its iconic frontman, Ozzy Osbourne. This special design will adorn Felix Rosenqvist’s No. 60 Honda, coinciding with the band’s final shows in Birmingham, England. The livery, characterized by its bold and striking visuals, has already garnered rave reviews from fans and critics alike.
“Ten out of 10. No notes,” exclaimed one enthusiastic fan, capturing the widespread admiration for the design.
The announcement comes as Meyer Shank Racing seeks to capitalize on the cultural impact of Black Sabbath, hoping to resonate with both motorsport enthusiasts and rock music fans.
Andretti Global’s Homage to Honda and Fox Sports
Meanwhile, Andretti Global is also making waves with two standout liveries. Kyle Kirkwood’s No. 27 Honda celebrates the team’s power unit manufacturer, Honda, and its Marysville Auto Plant, located just an hour away from the Mid-Ohio track. This livery serves as a nod to Honda’s remarkable performance this season, having powered every race-winning car so far.
Marcus Ericsson’s No. 28 Honda, on the other hand, showcases a tribute to Fox Sports, a major partner in the IndyCar series. This design is expected to stand out on the grid, with its vibrant colors and striking patterns.
“Honda deserves a hat-tip because they — specifically their engines — have been dynamite and have won every race this season,” noted a motorsport analyst.
Chip Ganassi Racing’s Bold “None More Black” Design
Championship leader Alex Palou will be sporting a “None More Black” livery on his No. 10 Honda for Chip Ganassi Racing, designed in collaboration with OpenAI. This sleek, all-black design is a nod to the current trend in motorsports where darker liveries are favored for their aesthetic appeal and potential weight-saving benefits.
Black liveries have become increasingly popular, especially in Formula 1, where exposed carbon fiber often results in a darker appearance. Despite this trend, Palou’s livery is expected to make a bold statement on the track.
The Implications of Stunning Liveries
The move represents a broader shift in the motorsport industry, where teams are investing heavily in livery design as a means of enhancing their brand image and engaging with fans. These designs not only serve as a visual spectacle but also as a marketing tool, drawing attention to sponsors and partners.
According to industry experts, the emphasis on liveries is likely to continue as teams seek to differentiate themselves in a competitive field. This trend is also reflective of a growing appreciation for the artistry involved in motorsport design.
“A well-designed livery can elevate a team’s presence on the track and create a lasting impression with fans,” said a leading motorsport designer.
As the Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting the chance to witness these stunning liveries in action. The race is set to take place on Sunday, July 6, at 1 pm ET, broadcast live on Fox.
With such a visually captivating lineup, this weekend’s race promises to be not only a test of speed and skill but also a celebration of creativity and design in the world of motorsports.
