Following his top-five finishes in the first two NASCAR Pro Invitational iRacing Series events, Garrett Smithley has landed a new sponsor that could transition into real life.
Rick Ware Racing announced Friday that GunBroker.com will sponsor Smithley in the next five Pro Invitational races before potentially sponsoring Smithley in the real life Brickyard 400, which is currently scheduled for July 5 but could have its date changed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“I am excited to have GunBroker.com on board my No. 51 entry,” Smithley said in a press release. “I have been iRacing for several years, and I’m glad that NASCAR, iRacing and Fox Sports have given the drivers, teams and sponsors the opportunity to continue to race, during this difficult time.”
GunBroker.com is an online marketplace where buyers can shop for new and used guns, ammunition, and accessories.
“iRacing is great racing and wonderful entertainment in these difficult times.” Steve Urvan, CEO of GunBroker.com, said in a press release. “We are excited to partner with our long-time friend Rick Ware and up-and-coming driver Garrett Smithley and look forward to seeing them both in victory lane.”
The website has been a sponsor in NASCAR before, sponsoring entries in the Truck Series in 162 races since 2007, 13 races in the Xfinity Series since 2004 and twice in the Cup Series in 2011 and 2013.
“We’re thrilled to have GunBroker.com back on board with Rick Ware Racing,” Rick Ware said in a press release. “Garrett is a fantastic young race car driver and has recently been given the opportunity to showcase his talent in the iRacing Series. Having GunBroker.com come back on board not only for the iRacing events, but as a potential primary for other Cup events is a huge opportunity, especially during this difficult time.”
Sunday’s race at a virtual Bristol Motor Speedway begins at 1 p.m. ET on Fox and FS1.