Air ambulance company Air Medical (Airmed) has been announced as an official sponsor of auto racing sanctioning body IndyCar, in a deal that covers both the premier IndyCar Series and its developmental series the Indy Lights.
According to a press release, as the official air ambulance of IndyCar, 'all Izod IndyCar Series and Firestone Indy Lights employees and racing team personnel will become members of Airmed’s acclaimed medical evacuation and repatriation program, which provides air ambulance transport to the hospital of the member’s choice from any point on the globe.'
"Whether at a race or off-track, we have a strong commitment to safety," said Mike Olinger, IndyCar Series director of medical services. "Not only do we strive to provide what's best for our drivers and teams, it's also extremely important to us that the best services are available to our employees, as well. With its unparalleled reputation, Airmed is able to meet our needs. Since we take the Izod IndyCar Series and Firestone Indy Lights across the country and to markets outside of North America, we’ll require first class facilities and personnel to transport our drivers, teams or employees to their desired destination for treatment, if necessary. It gives us great peace of mind knowing that we can turn to Airmed in these situations.”
Airmed International chief executive officer, Jeffrey Tolbert, added, "Both Airmed and IndyCar agree that safety is the top priority for every life we touch, so we are extremely pleased with this new relationship. As Indycar continues to expand globally, they can rest assured that Airmed will be there to support them should an unexpected emergency occur. Now the fastest drivers in the world will have the fastest way to recovery.”
Although financial terms were not released, industry experts have estimated the arrangement is worth a low seven-figure sum annually, entirely made up of value-in-kind.
IndyCar – Airmed
