Townsend Bell brings sponsor to Vision Racing

Townsend Bell will team with regular Vision Racing drivers Ed Carpenter and Tomas Scheckter and drive the No. 90 Rock & Republic Vision Racing Dallara/Honda/Firestone in this year's Indy 500. Rock & Republic, a fashion industry icon, will be the primary sponsor on all three cars.

"We are extremely excited to have this opportunity to partner with such a progressive and dynamic company as Rock & Republic," team co-owner Tony George said. "Their association with Hollywood and the entertainment industry is a natural link between motorsports entertainment and premium consumer interests."

Rock & Republic is known for its cutting-edge fashion and appeal amongst A-list celebrities.

Said Rock & Republic CEO Michael Ball: "What's cooler than an IndyCar doing 200-plus miles an hour around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway? Nothing."

Bell, 31, has five top-10 finishes in 11 IndyCar Series starts (11 in 2004 and one in 2005), but will be a candidate for the JPMorgan Chase Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year at Indianapolis.

"We've developed a good friendship with Rock & Republic and obviously an exciting program in a short time," Bell said. "I introduced Vision to the company after the team signed me and Mr. George really took it from there. Rock & Republic is a hot brand in fashion and it's cool to have some attitude on the car.

"The best part about the commitment from Vision Racing is that they are doing everything they can to give me a top-shelf program for the month. I have the proper amount of time to prepare, we'll run as many laps in the month as available, and I know I can count on the team to push everyday for the best result. In the end, I want to drive a solid, smart race, be there for the last stint and then we'll maximize what we have." IndyCar.com