Arby’s strikes huge 2025 deal with Rick Ware Racing to bring a major shift to the NASCAR world. The fast-food giant is stepping deeper into motorsports, making bold moves that could change the game. With a high-profile sponsorship and a fresh look on the track, this partnership is more than just branding—it signals a bigger strategy. What does this mean for Rick Ware Racing, its fans, and the competition?
Key Highlights
- Arby’s becomes the anchor partner with Rick Ware Racing in 2025, enhancing brand visibility in NASCAR.
- The partnership includes Arby’s primary sponsorship of 12 NASCAR races, debuting at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
- Cody Ware will drive the No. 51 Ford Mustang featuring distinctive Arby’s red and white livery.
- The collaboration aims to increase customer and franchisee engagement through enhanced fan engagement opportunities.
- Arby’s returns to NHRA sponsorship with Clay Millican, focusing on major events for strategic exposure and engagement.
Arby’s Expands Partnership with Rick Ware Racing for 2025
Building on their previous sponsorship endeavors, Arby’s will greatly improve its collaboration with Rick Ware Racing in 2025 by taking on the role of an anchor partner. This tactical expansion indicates a notable leap from their prior involvement in the NHRA Drag Racing program and NASCAR Cup Series at Talladega Superspeedway.
Arby’s commitment as a primary sponsor will span 12 races, amplifying its presence within the competitive NASCAR landscape.
Jeff Baker, Arby’s chief marketing officer, articulated the partnership’s tactical benefits, emphasizing its potential to boost customer and franchisee engagement.
“RWR provides Arby’s with a high-profile platform to engage both our customers and franchisees in an exciting and meaningful way.”
“It’s a high-speed opportunity to fuel fan engagement and reward those who foster great customer experiences.” – Jeff Baker
This collaboration positions Arby’s on a high-profile platform, enriching brand visibility and offering considerable fan engagement opportunities.
Rick Ware Racing, known for its diverse and competitive presence in motorsports, provides a fertile ground for Arby’s to utilize NASCAR’s expansive reach.
Arby’s Colors Set to Debut on No. 51 Ford Mustang
The revelation of Arby’s iconic red and white livery on the No. 51 Ford Mustang marks a significant milestone in the partnership between Arby’s and Rick Ware Racing. Slated to debut at the Atlanta Motor Speedway, this visual transformation is more than a simple aesthetic change—it emphasizes the deepening collaboration between Arby’s and the racing team.
The No. 51 Ford Mustang, piloted by Cody Ware, will feature the distinctive Arby’s branding, signaling a tactical expansion for the fast-food giant within the NASCAR circuit.
Rick Ware, the team owner, expressed immense pride in this development, attributing it to the team’s relentless pursuit of excellence both on and off the track.
“We’re extremely proud to expand our partnership with Arby’s for 2025 and beyond.”
“This renewed commitment is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and progress we’ve made as an organization. From the shop to the track, every member of this team has been focused on improving our performance, strengthening our brand, and delivering value to our partners. To have Arby’s recognize that effort and invest in an even bigger way speaks volumes to the commitment we’ve made to motorsports and the partners who support us. We’re ready to build on this momentum and achieve even greater success.” – Rick Ware
This revelation highlights the brand’s commitment to the sport and reflects the mutual dedication to performance improvement and value generation.
Arby’s Returns to NHRA Sponsorship in 2025
In 2025, Arby’s will reestablish its presence in the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) by sponsoring Rick Ware Racing‘s driver, Clay Millican. This calculated partnership centers on two major events: the Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway in June and the prestigious 71st U.S. Nationals from August 27 to September 1 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park.
Arby’s decision to return to NHRA sponsorship emphasizes their recognition of the notable exposure and engagement opportunities these races provide.
The collaboration with Rick Ware Racing is supported by four key factors:
- Historical Success: Millican’s previous victory at the U.S. Nationals, witnessed by Rick Ware, cemented the partnership’s potential.
- Teamwork and Dedication: Observations of RWR’s meticulous approach highlighted their commitment to excellence.
- Network Television Exposure: Both events’ broadcasts offer substantial visibility.
- Franchisee Excitement: The palpable enthusiasm among Arby’s franchisees emphasizes the partnership’s value.
“The U.S. Nationals is where our partnership with RWR began, and you couldn’t have scripted it any better.”
“Clay Millican won and Rick Ware was there, hands-on with his race team. It was eye-opening to see the teamwork, the attention to detail, and the dedication everyone at RWR put into their respective roles. It’s why we partnered with RWR again for the NASCAR Cup Series race last October at Talladega, where Cody Ware put the Arby’s car out front. Both races were on network television, and the excitement it generated among our franchisees was palpable. It was an easy decision to come back with RWR in a much greater capacity in 2025.” – Jeff Baker
Cody Ware’s Performance in Recent Races
Cody Ware navigated the challenges of recent races with resilience and skill, showcasing his potential amidst the high-stakes environment of NASCAR.
In the iconic Daytona 500, Ware positioned himself tactically near the front of the field. However, on the final lap, a massive melee unfolded, and despite his efforts, he was unable to evade it. Consequently, Ware was placed 25th, a reflection of both his competitive spirit and the unpredictable nature of racing at Daytona.
Ware’s performance at Talladega Superspeedway last fall further illustrated his capabilities. Driving the Arby’s-sponsored No. 15 Rick Ware Racing Ford, he achieved a commendable 12th-place finish.
This result at the high-speed, high-risk track highlighted his adeptness in handling the demands of superspeedway racing. Ware’s recent performances indicate a driver on the cusp of breaking through, with the potential for notable contributions to Rick Ware Racing’s future successes.
News in Brief: Arby’s Strikes Huge 2025 Deal With Rick Ware Racing
Arby’s tactical partnership with Rick Ware Racing marks a noteworthy development in the NASCAR landscape, highlighting their commitment to motorsport sponsorship. With the iconic Arby’s branding set to feature on the No. 51 Ford Mustang, the collaboration aims to improve visibility and engagement within the racing community.
Furthermore, Arby’s anticipated return to NHRA sponsorship in 2025 emphasizes their broader dedication to motorsport. This alliance is poised to influence racing dynamics, offering new opportunities for growth and fan interaction.
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