Checkers/Rally's Exits NASCAR, Other Motorsports Deals

Checkers/Rally's has been "released from its position as the official burger of NASCAR, creating an opening in the QSR category," according to Michael Smith of SPORTSBUSINESS JOURNAL. NASCAR called the separation a "mutual decision." Checkers/Rally's also has "exited its sponsorships" of the IndyCar Series Indianapolis 500, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Allstate 400 at the Brickyard and Indianapolis Motor Speedway. All of Checkers/Rally's motorsports deals were "scheduled to run through the 2009 season." NASCAR has "turned its attention to filling the QSR category," and NASCAR Managing Dir of Corporate Marketing Brian Corcoran is "spearheading the effort to find a brand with a national footprint" (SPORTSBUSINESS JOURNAL, 4/21 issue).