Kurt Busch, the former NASCAR Cup Series champion, appeared alongside Formula One standout Lando Norris at the Monster Energy event in Austin this week. This high-profile gathering, centered on the introduction of a new drink flavor to the U.S. market, attracted attention just as the city gears up for the U.S. Grand Prix, making the Kurt Busch Monster Energy event a focal point for motorsport and F1 fans alike.
Kurt Busch Teams Up with Lando Norris for Monster Energy Launch
Busch, who left the NASCAR grid following his Pocono injury in 2023, was invited by Monster Energy to Austin for the exclusive release of a new, previously Europe-only flavor. At the event, he met with Lando Norris, currently second in the F1 Drivers’ championship, as Monster Energy rolled out the melon yuzu-flavored, sugar-free beverage inspired by Norris and designed to match the look of his familiar racing helmet.
The brand collaboration merges elements from Norris’s racing background and Monster Energy’s flair for unique flavors. The drink, which debuted overseas, is debuting across select American markets in time for the Grand Prix week, amplifying excitement among fans of both Formula One and NASCAR.
Behind the Scenes: Driver Encounters and Social Media Moments
During the Monster Energy launch, Busch shared updates with fans via his social media platforms, documenting key highlights. In one popular Instagram video, Busch retrieved a helmet-shaped box from a refrigerator, using the moment to unveil the new can and describing its blend as reminiscent of a “million lemonade flavors.” The connection between the two drivers was showcased in a post of the pair shaking hands, accompanied by Busch’s lighthearted and energetic caption:
“Hangin’ out with @lando and watching him burn some rubber with @dangerboydeegan in Austin, TX. Another day in the life of a kick ass @monsterenergy lifestyle. Full send peeps.”
– Kurt Busch
Lando Norris Shares His Thoughts on the U.S. Launch
Norris, whose role as a McLaren driver and current F1 championship contender keeps him in the global spotlight, shared his enthusiasm about finally bringing his signature drink to an American audience. He acknowledged the anticipation among U.S. fans, noting the synergy between F1’s growing popularity in America and this product launch, stating:
“I’ve had so many people in the U.S. asking when my flavor would finally make it here, so I’m really excited to see it launch during Austin Grand Prix week. The energy around F1 in America is unreal, and to celebrate it with Monster Energy in such a big way with the pop-up, the party and of course the can itself makes it even more special.”
– Lando Norris
Fan Experiences and Exclusive Offers in Austin
Monster Energy is maximizing the event’s impact with a string of fan-focused activities throughout Austin. The LN4 x Monster Energy Pop-Up Store, another first for the U.S., is offering not just the new beverage, but also exclusive merchandise and Norris’s personal clothing line in a physical retail setting. Special merchandise drops and surprise giveaways are planned city-wide, encouraging fans to check Monster Energy’s social media for further opportunities during Grand Prix week.
This collaboration between leading names from Formula One and NASCAR, centered in the buzzing city of Austin, underscores the increasing crossover appeal of motorsports in America. Fans can expect a vibrant week, filled with new product debuts, unique interactions with racing icons like Kurt Busch and Lando Norris, and opportunities to engage directly with the Monster Energy brand while celebrating the excitement surrounding the Austin Grand Prix and the broader motorsport community.
