The DHL livery has been a staple of Andretti’s IndyCar program over the years. Photo: Kevin Dejewski
One of IndyCar’s most recognizable sponsors, DHL, is leaving Andretti Global after partnering with the team for the past 13 years.
In that time, the iconic yellow and red livery has been a staple of the Andretti team and of the American open wheel series as a whole.
Ryan Hunter-Reay was the first to pilot the DHL car in 2011, winning one championship and one Indianapolis 500 while representing the international shipping company.
He remained in the #28 entry with a largely unchanged livery for a decade, and the combination became very recognizable to fans of the sport.
Hunter-Reay stepped away from full time racing at the end of 2021, and the DHL colors were taken over by Romain Grosjean as he joined the Andretti team for two seasons.
Ryan Hunter-Reay represented the shipping company for a decade. Photo: IndyCar
The Frenchman earned two poles and three podiums while wearing the bold colors, narrowly missing out on earning a victory.
Shortly after confirmation came that Grosjean would be leaving Andretti, DHL has now also confirmed that it will be leaving the team as well.
DHL posted a video to social media recapping a few key memories the company has had with Andretti over the years.
“From a series championship to an Indy 500 victory, our partnership with @AndrettiIndy is etched in history,” read the post.
“To the Andretti family, you’ve been more than partners, you’ve been family. Thank you for a journey defined by perseverance, sportsmanship, and greatness.”
From a series championship to an Indy 500 victory, our partnership with @AndrettiIndy is etched in history. To the Andretti family, you've been more than partners, you've been family. Thank you for a journey defined by perseverance, sportsmanship, and greatness. pic.twitter.com/Opw7HXEOqC
— DHL U.S. (@DHLUS) September 11, 2023
DHL was also a major sponsor of Andretti’s Indy NXT efforts, with Jamie Chadwick piloting a similar livery in her rookie season this past year.
No information was given about DHL’s future in IndyCar, but the conspicuous lack of commentary about the company leaving the series points to a partnership with another team next season.
It remains to be seen with what team that partnership would be and if the iconic DHL livery will continue to be on the grid next year.
Keyword: Andretti loses longtime sponsor DHL