Texas A&M University has announced a significant collaboration with the Haas Factory Team, Tony Stewart’s former partner, in a deal valued at $275,000 for the 2025 season. The agreement brings the university back to the NASCAR scene as a prominent primary sponsor and promises a host of perks, including student internships and VIP experiences. The deal, revealed through an open records request obtained by Sportico, puts Texas A&M front and center at one of America’s favorite racing events in Charlotte, highlighting the university’s enduring enthusiasm for motorsports and hands-on student opportunities.
The new partnership with Tony Stewart’s ex-team includes sponsorship of Cole Custer’s ride, marking Texas A&M’s continued involvement after a successful 2024 campaign. As part of this agreement, Texas A&M will receive 20 VIP passes for the Coca-Cola 600, a guided hauler tour, and a meet-and-greet session with Cup Series driver Cole Custer. The deal also covers enhanced social media exposure and production of promotional videos to boost the university’s presence both at the track and online. Students will directly benefit as well: the Haas Factory Team is offering two paid summer internships at its race shop, giving select Aggies the rare chance to work in the competitive world of NASCAR racing, an opportunity few universities provide.
R. Ethan, the vice president and marketing officer at Texas A&M, emphasized the value of this relationship, sharing with Sportico.com that the partnership goes beyond branding, providing real-world experience and industry connections for students. In the prior season, the university invested $160,000 with Tony Stewart’s former Cup Series team to secure primary sponsorships at two playoff events: the South Point 400 in Las Vegas and the Championship Four race at Phoenix. This year’s increased investment comes with even broader promotional advantages, including the coveted season-long wheel well logo placement.
While Tony Stewart himself is not directly involved in this particular deal, his ongoing influence in the racing world remains evident. Earlier in March 2025, Stewart, a former NASCAR Cup Series champion, reached an agreement with Rinnai America Corporation, a longtime supporter of Stewart-Haas Racing. In an interview with Drag Illustrated, Stewart reflected on his team’s collaborations, while Rinnai extended its support to drivers like Leah Pruett, Stewart’s wife, and Matt Hagan at the NHRA New England Nationals. Stewart’s role as a mentor and ambassador continues, even as Leah Pruett stepped back from NHRA racing to focus on family.
The impact of Texas A&M’s expanded partnership with the Haas Factory Team, with Tony Stewart’s legacy at the core, goes beyond race day promotions. For students, it opens doors to valued internships, offering a bridge from classroom to career in a fast-paced industry. The deal also reinforces the university’s commitment to experiential learning and strengthens its reputation both on and off the track. As Texas A&M gears up for another racing season, the collaboration signals a new era of opportunity and excitement, leaving fans and students alike watching to see what successes await.
