Honda, IndyCar agree to extension

Bruce Martin, SI.com

INDIANAPOLIS -- With a unified IndyCar Series, Honda Performance Development has agreed to a five-year extension to supply engines to the series.

Honda joined the IndyCar Series at the start of the 2003 season, and became single supplier of racing engines to the series in 2006.

"In the six years that Honda has been a part of the Indy Racing League, we've had a great deal of success, both against strong competition from other auto manufacturers and as single engine supplier," said Erik Berkman, president of HPD, located in Santa Clarita, CA. "Honda is pleased to be part of the IndyCar Series, as it provides both a technical challenge for our engineers and a showcase for Honda products worldwide.

"We are delighted by the League's decision to welcome automotive manufacturers to Indianapolis next month. We look forward to the continued growth of IndyCar racing, and potential participation by additional engine manufacturers."

The news extends an already fruitful relationship between the engine manufacturer and the IndyCar Series.

"I am very excited about Honda's decision as it brings stability and continuity to a very competitive racing package," said Brian Barnhart, President of Competition and Operations for the League. "We're encouraged by Honda's commitment to the IndyCar Series, and their willingness to assist us in growing the series, both on and off the race track."