Think Finance Racing

Think Finance Racing was a short-lived but impactful force in IndyCar racing, primarily during the 2012 and 2013 seasons. Though not a full-fledged racing team in the traditional sense, Think Finance functioned as the primary sponsor for the Panther Racing team, significantly boosting their profile and visibility during a period of transition for both organizations. Their involvement came at a crucial juncture for Panther Racing. After a long and successful partnership with the National Guard, which ended after the 2011 season, Panther needed a new title sponsor to remain competitive. Think Finance, a company specializing in online lending and financial services, stepped in, bringing much-needed funding and marketing support. The partnership's most notable achievement was with driver J.R. Hildebrand behind the wheel of the No. 4 car. The car was easily recognizable with its vibrant orange and white livery showcasing Think Finance's branding, most prominently their "Think Cash" product. While Hildebrand showed flashes of brilliance, including several top-ten finishes, overall results were often hampered by mechanical issues and on-track incidents. Despite the lack of consistent podium appearances, the team gained a reputation for its fighting spirit and dedicated fanbase. Think Finance’s sponsorship extended beyond mere financial investment. They actively engaged in marketing and promotional activities, leveraging the IndyCar platform to increase brand awareness and reach a wider audience. They were particularly active on social media, creating interactive campaigns and contests to connect with fans and promote their services. The collaboration also saw initiatives focused on financial literacy, reflecting Think Finance's core business values. However, the relationship between Think Finance and Panther Racing was ultimately short-lived. Legal and regulatory challenges surrounding Think Finance's business practices began to mount. The company faced scrutiny from consumer advocacy groups and government agencies regarding its lending rates and business operations. This negative publicity inevitably impacted their partnership with Panther Racing. By the end of the 2013 season, Think Finance had decided to withdraw its sponsorship from Panther Racing. This departure created a significant financial void for the team, ultimately contributing to Panther's eventual decline and eventual folding in 2014. Despite its brevity, Think Finance Racing remains a noteworthy chapter in IndyCar history. It highlighted the symbiotic relationship between racing teams and corporate sponsors, demonstrating how financial investment can elevate a team's profile and competitiveness. It also underscored the inherent risks involved in sponsorships, particularly when a sponsor faces public or legal challenges. While the partnership didn't achieve championship glory, it left a lasting impression with its bold branding and demonstrated the power of a well-executed marketing campaign within the high-octane world of IndyCar racing.