'500' On ABC Through 2018

With the Indianapolis 500 broadcast rights up after the 2012 event, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway announced today that the race will return to ESPN on ABC through the 2018 season.

"The Indianapolis 500 and ABC have been together since 1965, and we are very proud to extend the relationship with this new agreement," said George Bodenheimer, president of ESPN and ABC Sports. "The 500 is a uniquely American event and a Memorial Day tradition, and we especially look forward to televising the 100th edition of the race in 2016."


The Indy 500 broadcast partner since 1956, ABC will remain as the exclusive broadcast network airing four IndyCar events each season. In addition, starting in 2012 live streaming of onboard cameras will be available on ESPN3.com.

"INDYCAR is very excited about our continued relationship with ABC," said Randy Bernard, CEO, INDYCAR. "This allows the series long-term growth on the network. This new contract also helps us expand our presence around the world with ESPN representing our international rights. I want to thank ABC for their strong confidence and commitment in our brand and series. This deal will help our series, team owners, sponsors and fans for the long term with a much more solid foundation."

INDYCAR is in the 3rd year of a lengthy agreement with VERSUS to air the majority of it's events each season through the 2018 season. The television partner since 2009, VERSUS will be renamed the NBC Sport Network later this year.

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