Milwaukee Mile IndyFest picks up new date, title sponsor

Andretti Sports Marketing officially announced its continued commitment to hosting IndyCar Series racing at the Milwaukee Mile, officially unveiling its 2014 race date and a new title sponsor.

The ABC Supply Company Wisconsin 250 at Milwaukee IndyFest will take place on Aug. 16-17 of next year and is also confirmed for the 2015 season as well.

“Racing at the Milwaukee Mile, the world’s longest running race track, is always exciting. We’re thrilled to announce the ABC Supply Wisconsin 250 at Milwaukee IndyFest, a new title sponsor and a new date to continue the tradition of IndyCar racing at the Mile,” said Kevin Healy, Managing Director for Andretti Sports Marketing through a press release. “We appreciate the leadership of Diane Hendricks and ABC Supply Co, Inc. has provided to ensure that an international motorsports event remains in Wisconsin.”

Continuing the event’s storied tenure at Milwaukee Mile is important for the IndyCar community because the venue is one of Indy racing’s longest-tenured hosts. Open-wheel racing has been a staple at the West Allis, Wis. circuit since 1937 and the prospects of it falling off the calendar could sever the sport’s link to its past.

That nearly happened when the track did not host a race in 2010 but returned in 2011. The event was again at risk of cancellation in 2012 before Andretti swooped in and began promoting the newly redubbed Milwaukee IndyFest.

The event is a combination IndyCar Series race weekend and general interest entertainment expo, utilizing the fairgrounds to maximum potential while featuring amusement rides, food and concerts.

Andretti Autosport driver and defending IndyCar Series champion Ryan Hunter-Reay is the defending winner of the event and has won both times since Andretti revived IndyCar racing at the Milwaukee Mile.

Previously announced 2014 IndyCar races from May through July include the Grand Prix of Indianapolis (May 10), Indianapolis 500 (May 25), Detroit (May 31-June 1), Texas (June 7), Pocono (July 6) and Toronto (July 19-20).

The complete schedule will be revealed via press release and a championship preview show that will air on Thursday night at 8 p.m. ET on the NBC Sports Network.