McDonald's expand Evernham relationship.

Fast food giants McDonald's have expanded their 2005 sponsorship deal with Evernham Motorsports to include associate sponsorship of Kasey Kahne's #9 machine.

The famous 'Golden Arches' had already agreed to be the primary sponsor on former driver Bill Elliott's #98 Dodge for two races, and will now appear as an associate sponsors on the sides of Kahne's #9 UAW-Dodge Dealers entry for the remainder of the 2004 season.

"McDonald's is thrilled to partner with Evernham Motorsports, which is one of the premier teams in the Nextel cup Series," said John Lewicki, McDonald's senior director of alliance marketing. "Being aligned with a quality owner in Ray Evernham along with a legend in Bill Elliott and an young star in Kasey Kahne, will only enhance the McDonald's brand with NASCAR's loyal fan following.

Evernham was equally proud of the new association.

"McDonald's is one of the best known brands in the world and it's an honour to have them join our team," said Evernham, president and CEO of Evernham Motorsports.
"McDonald's global reach and innovative marketing programmes will provide a whole new level of awareness for our team."

Kahne is the 2004 Raybestos Rookie of the Year and the 24 year-old driver was also looking forward to being affiliated with McDonald's.

"I've always been a big fan of McDonald's, so it's perfect that they're now a sponsor with Evernham Motorsports," said Kahne, who posted five runner-up finishes in 2004 along with 13 top fives, 14 top 10s and four poles.
"Anytime you can be associated with one of the most recognised companies in the world you just sit back and say, 'I'm lovin' it.' "

McDonald's motorsports programmes also include primary sponsorships in the Champ Car World Series with the Newman/Haas team and 2004 Champion Sebastian Bourdais and in the NASCAR Busch Series with Team Rensi Motorsports and driver Jason Keller.