On Monday in Indianapolis, NTT IndyCar Series driver Marcus Ericsson visited Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital (PMCH), where a special project connected him with young patient ambassadors. These ambassadors, a group of former and current patients, created custom-designed hats for the Andretti Global competitor to wear during selected races this season, highlighting their creativity and resilience.
Custom Hats Created to Support Ericsson at Key Races
Each patient ambassador contributed unique artwork to Delaware Life Branded Bills hats that Marcus Ericsson will wear at seven race events where Delaware Life sponsors his car. The races include the Streets of St. Petersburg, Phoenix Raceway, Streets of Detroit, World Wide Technology Raceway, Road America, Nashville Superspeedway, and Portland International Raceway. These custom hats showcase art inspired by each specific race, serving as a symbol of encouragement for the driver.
Reflecting on the project, Ericsson expressed enthusiasm:
“When this initiative came up, I was super excited to be a part of that,”
he told News 8 Sports’ Andrew Chernoff.
“I think the idea of making hats – custom hats – that these kids have made today and (to) see how happy and excited they are about that, I think that’s super cool to be a part of.”
Patient Ambassadors Share Stories and Inspire Through Art
The patient ambassadors at PMCH use their experiences to raise awareness, foster resilience, and support the hospital’s mission. Their race-themed hat designs not only brighten Marcus Ericsson’s race weekends but also reinforce hope and determination on and off the track. This partnership highlights the strong community ties within the IndyCar series and the positive impact involving young patients can have.
Regarding the importance of the collaboration, Ericsson said,
“It’s definitely going to help me get those last couple of tenths of the race car feeling the support from these kids,”
and added,
“It’s been really fun to be here today and interact with them and get to know them a little bit.”
Community Commitment Through INDYCAR Platform and Sponsors
The initiative embodies a broader commitment from Group 1001 and Delaware Life to the local community. Using the visibility of the INDYCAR platform, this partnership shines a spotlight on the inspiring patient ambassadors who contribute so much through their stories and participation. According to a press release,
“This partnership reflects Group 1001 and Delaware Life’s commitment to community, using the INDYCAR platform to spotlight patient ambassadors and create a meaningful impact.”
Looking Ahead to the 2026 NTT IndyCar Series
Marcus Ericsson, the 2022 Indianapolis 500 champion, is gearing up for his third season with Andretti Global. The 2026 NTT IndyCar Series kicks off this weekend with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, where Ericsson claimed victory in 2023. His partnership with PMCH and the custom hats crafted by the hospital’s ambassadors add a heartfelt and personal dimension to his upcoming season, blending sport with community inspiration.
