The 2025 Indianapolis 500 promises to be nothing short of spectacular, with a historic collaboration and daring feats poised to make this year’s race one for the record books. From Tom Brady joining forces with Jimmie Johnson to co-own a Chip Ganassi Racing entry, to Kyle Larson taking another shot at the legendary “double,” the hype for the 109th Indy 500 is reaching unprecedented levels.
Brady and Johnson: A Powerhouse Partnership
In a headline-grabbing development, Tom Brady, the seven-time NFL champion, and Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, are reportedly teaming up to co-own Chip Ganassi Racing’s fourth entry for the Indy 500. While not yet officially confirmed, the collaboration has been widely reported, with IndyCar insider Tony Donohue breaking the news on The Tony D Podcast.
“Tom Brady and Jimmie Johnson are joining forces to be co-owners alongside Chip Ganassi of the fourth entry for the 109th Indianapolis 500,” Donohue said. “The driver would be … Sebastien Bourdais.”
With Brady’s star power and Johnson’s racing pedigree, this partnership could serve as a massive marketing boost for IndyCar, especially as the series begins its new broadcast deal with FOX Sports in 2025. Brady, already a familiar face in motorsport after starring in an IndyCar ad alongside Josef Newgarden and Alex Palou, brings global recognition to the event. Meanwhile, Johnson, no stranger to the Indy 500 as a driver, steps into a new role as an owner.
Carvana and Bourdais Join the Team
Donohue also revealed that Carvana, which sponsored Johnson’s recent IndyCar campaigns, will back the team, with veteran driver Sebastien Bourdais set to take the wheel. Bourdais, a four-time IndyCar champion, adds a wealth of experience to this star-studded lineup, making the fourth Ganassi entry a formidable contender.
Kyle Larson’s Second Shot at the ‘Double’
As if Brady and Johnson weren’t enough to steal the headlines, Kyle Larson is gearing up for his second attempt at the grueling Indianapolis 500-Coca-Cola 600 doubleheader. After weather chaos derailed his 2024 bid, Larson hopes for clearer skies in 2025. Last year, he finished 18th at Indy after leading laps but never got to compete in the shortened Coca-Cola 600 due to rain delays.
Larson’s 2025 attempt comes under NASCAR’s revised waiver rules—dubbed the “Kyle Larson Rule”—which now impose strict penalties for missing or partially completing Cup Series races without a valid reason. Should weather disrupt his plans again, Larson will prioritize competing in the Coca-Cola 600 to avoid losing critical playoff points.
Marketing Gold or Distraction for IndyCar?
The Brady-Johnson collaboration has sparked debates over whether it’s a marketing masterstroke or a flashy sideshow. There’s no denying the impact two sports icons can have on promoting IndyCar to a wider audience. Brady’s involvement alone is likely to attract NFL fans to the race, while Johnson’s status as a racing legend lends credibility to the endeavor.
For IndyCar, this partnership is a chance to capitalize on the buzz and bring fresh attention to the series, particularly during a pivotal year for its FOX Sports debut.
What to Expect at the 109th Indy 500
With Brady and Johnson injecting star power into the paddock, Larson’s daring “double” attempt, and a grid packed with seasoned racers like Bourdais, the 2025 Indianapolis 500 is shaping up to be a historic spectacle. Whether it’s the star-studded ownership team, Larson’s endurance challenge, or the thrilling on-track battles, fans have every reason to tune in.