Some teams have struggled with sponsorship recently in NASCAR, and the sport itself is undergoing some difficulty securing long term sponsors.
However, Richard Petty Motorsports just signed an extension with a major sponsor moving forward. The team announced a deal with the U.S. Air Force, and it will be the 10th straight year the Air Force has sponsored a car for RPM.
The sponsorship will appear on Bubba Wallace's No. 43 car at the Coke Zero 400 at Daytona International Speedway and at Phoenix Raceway.
It's time to buzz the tower. Ready to fly with @usairforce / @USAFRecruiting in 2018! pic.twitter.com/bLdqZY2Ex8
— Bubba Wallace (@BubbaWallace) December 18, 2017
Related: Richard Childress Racing locks down sponsorship for one of the team's most promising drivers
"I'm proud to join the men and women of the Air Force and represent them on and off the track," Wallace said via Motorsports Tribune. "I'm also really looking forward to meeting the next wave of Airmen and play my part to engage, inspire and bring awareness to the unique opportunities which lie within our United States Air Force. I've had the opportunity to spend time with some Airmen and they are the best at what they do. I admire them for their service and the protections they provide our country."
Richard Petty said the partnership with the Air Force is very important to him and he's glad they can continue their relationship into next season.
"The U.S. Air Force has been partners with us for a long time," Petty said. "It's a special partnership for us because we get to thank the men and women who protect our freedom each weekend, but also get to talk to new recruits about the Air Force and what opportunities they have. It's been great for both of us."
Wallace will be competing in his first season as a full-time driver next year for RPM, and he'll take over the iconic No. 43 car for Aric Almirola. Wallace filled in part-time during Almirola's injury in 2017.