The 109th Indianapolis 500 is not just about speed and competition; it’s also about giving back. Late-night television icon and Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing co-owner, David Letterman, has launched a unique fundraising initiative that allows fans to symbolically “ride” with driver Graham Rahal while supporting military veterans. For a donation of $50, fans can have their names added to Rahal’s No. 15 car, with all proceeds benefiting veterans’ causes. This initiative is a partnership with United Rentals and their Turns for Troops program, a long-standing supporter of military veterans since 2016. Letterman has passionately promoted the initiative, emphasizing the importance of supporting those who have served, and even humorously noting his own $50 contribution in honor of his second cousin, Major Jonathan Letterman, a pioneering figure in battlefield medicine.
The Indianapolis 500 holds a special place in the history of Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLL). Co-owned by Bobby Rahal, David Letterman, and Mike Lanigan, the team has achieved the pinnacle of IndyCar racing with two Indy 500 victories. Buddy Rice piloted the team to victory lane in 2004, and Takuma Sato replicated the feat in 2020, solidifying RLL’s place among the IndyCar elite. The upcoming race marks Graham Rahal’s 18th attempt to add his name to the list of Indy 500 champions. He enters the race following a challenging 2023 season, adding an extra layer of motivation to his pursuit of the coveted Borg-Warner Trophy.
The Turns for Troops program, central to Letterman’s fundraising effort, has a proven track record of supporting veterans. Since its inception, the program has raised over $2.5 million for various veteran charities, including over $1 million through its signature $50 per-lap donation model. Last year alone, Graham Rahal’s 2,368 laps translated into a substantial $140,000 contribution to veteran organizations. This year, with the added impetus of Letterman’s fan-inclusive initiative, the program is poised to make an even greater impact on the lives of veterans and their families.
The 2024 Indianapolis 500 is set to be a race of both familiar faces and renewed rivalries. Alongside Graham Rahal, veteran driver Marco Andretti will be making his 20th attempt at capturing the elusive Indy 500 title. The presence of both Rahal and Andretti, representing families with deep roots in motorsport, promises a thrilling contest infused with historical significance. Their shared ambition to conquer the Brickyard will undoubtedly add to the drama and excitement of the race.
Andretti’s participation is further underscored by the continued partnership with MAPEI, who will serve as the primary sponsor for his No. 98 car. This ongoing collaboration, which extends to Kyle Kirkwood’s No. 27 car for the full 2025 season, highlights the enduring value and visibility that the IndyCar series offers to its partners. Doug Bresnahan, Chief Commercial Officer at Andretti Global, expressed his enthusiasm for the renewed partnership, emphasizing the successful exposure MAPEI received during the 2024 season and anticipating another exciting year of collaboration in 2025.
As the 109th Indianapolis 500 approaches, the convergence of racing legacy, philanthropic endeavors, and renewed rivalries creates a compelling narrative. David Letterman’s initiative adds a unique dimension, allowing fans to participate in a meaningful way while supporting a worthy cause. The combination of on-track action and off-track generosity promises to make the 2024 Indianapolis 500 a memorable event for both racing enthusiasts and supporters of military veterans. The roar of the engines will be accompanied by the quiet satisfaction of contributing to the well-being of those who have served their country.
