Indy Bound: Why the NHRA U.S. Nationals on Labor Day Weekend Is More Than Just a Race
The “Big Go”
Every sport has its crown jewel. For NHRA drag racing, that’s the U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis - better known as “The Big Go.”
For over 60 years, Indy has been the race every driver dreams of winning, every crew pushes extra hard for, and every fan circles on the calendar.
It’s not just another stop on the tour. It’s the largest drag race in the world.
And it all happens on Labor Day weekend.
Why Indy Is a Big Deal for Racers
Winning Indy is career-defining. Period.
It’s the one race where legends are made and underdogs can become household names overnight. With packed fields, intense qualifying, and fan-filled grandstands, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Drivers don’t just bring their A-game - they bring everything they’ve got.
Why Indy Is a Big Deal for Sponsors
If you’re a sponsor, this is where the spotlight shines the brightest.
Massive Fan Base: Indy draws one of the biggest crowds of the season, giving brands unmatched exposure.
Media Coverage: Every outlet covers Indy - print, digital, broadcast. Your logo placement goes further here than almost anywhere else.
Content Opportunities: Between the fan interactions, pit activity, and racing action, there’s no shortage of material for social media and marketing campaigns.
In short? Indy delivers ROI on and off the track.
Why Indy Is a Big Deal for Fans
For fans, Indy is bucket-list territory.
The best racing - every class is stacked.
The best atmosphere - from the pits to the stands to the campgrounds, it’s racing heaven.
The best memories - you’re part of history just by being there.
There’s nothing like watching side-by-side racing at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park on Labor Day weekend.
Marketing at Indy: Turning One Weekend Into a Season of Content
Indy isn’t just about who takes home the Wally. It’s about how you leverage the weekend after the race is over.
Teams and brands can:
Capture weeks’ worth of content in three days
Strengthen sponsor relationships with VIP access and pit experiences
Build fan loyalty by sharing the behind-the-scenes hustle
The Bottom Line
The NHRA U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis isn’t just the “Big Go” for racers - it’s the biggest opportunity of the year for teams, sponsors, and fans.
Whether you’re racing, supporting, or cheering from the stands, Indy is the place where history gets made and relationships grow stronger.
So pack your gear, charge your cameras, and get ready - because Indy on Labor Day weekend is like nothing else in motorsports.
Want to maximize your presence at Indy and turn one weekend into year-round sponsor value?
JW Brands helps race teams and businesses turn events into marketing machines.
