IndyCar strikes VR partnership

North American motor-racing series IndyCar has entered into a partnership with augmented and virtual reality production company Mandt VR to enhance its race coverage.

Los Angeles-based Mandt VR will produce behind-the-scenes footage during the 2018 IndyCar season at events such as the Indianapolis 500, the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 and the Grand Prix of Sonoma.

The deal will initially cover the 2018 season, although the Los Angeles Business Journal newspaper said both parties are hopeful of extending the relationship.

Content will be showcased on IndyCar.com, and on the series’ official pages on social media platform Facebook and video-sharing website YouTube.

An initial five videos will be produced, with experiences to include sitting in drivers’ seats and a fans-eye view from the stands.

“IndyCar will continue its momentum by engaging present fans while seeking new and younger audiences,” CJ O'Donnell, IndyCar’s chief marketing officer, said in a statement. “Social media, video content, and now virtual reality will be central to this strategy.”