Over the years, NASCAR has been home to some of the most recognizable sponsors, creating unforgettable paint schemes and championship memories. Brands like DuPont and Budweiser became more than just logos – they were part of racing’s rich legacy. But as times changed and corporate priorities shifted, several iconic sponsors left the sport behind.
DuPont (Jeff Gordon – Hendrick Motorsports)
Jeff Gordon’s No. 24 Chevrolet became legendary with DuPont’s vibrant rainbow paint scheme. From 1992 to 2010, the chemical company was an integral part of Gordon’s success. In 2013, DuPont rebranded and stepped away from NASCAR, with Axalta taking over as the primary sponsor.
M&M’s (Kyle Busch – Joe Gibbs Racing)
Kyle Busch and M&M’s were a dynamic duo—bold, colorful, and always in the spotlight. The candy brand sponsored Busch’s No. 18 Toyota from 2008 to 2022, supporting him through two Cup Series championships. After 2022, M&M’s ended their partnership with NASCAR, and Joe Gibbs Racing replaced them with Rheem and Interstate Batteries.
Lowe’s (Jimmie Johnson – Hendrick Motorsports)
Lowe’s was the driving force behind Jimmie Johnson’s historic seven Cup Series championships. From 2001 to 2018, the home improvement retailer backed the No. 48 Chevrolet. After Johnson’s final full-time season in 2018, Lowe’s exited the sport, and Ally Financial stepped in as the new sponsor.
Home Depot (Tony Stewart, Joey Logano – Joe Gibbs Racing)
For 15 years, Home Depot was a dominant presence in NASCAR, sponsoring the No. 20 car at Joe Gibbs Racing from 1999 to 2014. Tony Stewart claimed two championships under their sponsorship, followed by stints with Joey Logano and Matt Kenseth. The retailer left the sport in 2014, with Stanley/DeWalt replacing them.
Budweiser (Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kevin Harvick)
Budweiser’s sponsorship remains one of NASCAR’s most iconic partnerships, especially during Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s time in the No. 8 car (2000-2007). The bold red paint scheme became a fan favorite. Budweiser later sponsored Kevin Harvick’s No. 29 from 2011 to 2015 before shifting to Busch Beer in 2016, closing a memorable chapter.
Sprint / Nextel (NASCAR Cup Series Title Sponsor)
The NASCAR Cup Series carried the Nextel name from 2004, which later became Sprint. For over a decade, the telecommunications giant served as the series’ title sponsor until stepping away in 2016. Monster Energy took over from 2017 to 2019 before NASCAR transitioned to a multi-sponsor model.
Miller Lite (Rusty Wallace, Kurt Busch, Brad Keselowski – Team Penske)
Miller Lite was synonymous with Team Penske’s No. 2 car for nearly three decades, backing Rusty Wallace (1991-2005), Kurt Busch, and Brad Keselowski (2008-2020). Keselowski brought home the 2012 championship with the Miller Lite livery. The partnership scaled back after 2020 before leaving NASCAR entirely.
Target (Chip Ganassi Racing)
Target was a familiar sight in NASCAR for 27 years, sponsoring Chip Ganassi Racing’s cars from 1990 to 2017. The brand became closely tied to Kyle Larson’s early career. After 2017, Target exited the sport, with Credit One Bank stepping in as the new sponsor.
Hooters (Alan Kulwicki, Chase Elliott – Various Teams)
Hooters made its mark by sponsoring Alan Kulwicki’s 1992 championship-winning No. 7 car. The brand returned to NASCAR in 2017 as a part-time sponsor for Chase Elliott’s No. 9 Chevrolet. However, the partnership ended in July 2024 when Hendrick Motorsports terminated the agreement and sued Hooters for failing to meet financial commitments.
