"The launch of 'Batman Begins' will be fun for the fans at the track and those watching from home," said NASCAR chairman and CEO Brian France. "Batman will cheer on the 43 super heroes that will be competing for the Batman Begins 400 at Michigan International Speedway."
"We're looking forward to pairing the on-screen excitement of 'Batman Begins' to the on-track excitement of NASCAR," said Dan Romanelli, President, Warner Bros. Worldwide Consumer Products. "A fast car, the Batmobile(TM), and a host of high-tech gadgets have always been key to Batman's success in fighting his way to victory over crime. As NASCAR's finest drivers take to the track on June 19 for the Batman Begins 400 at Michigan International Speedway, they will utilize all of the high-tech gadgets at their disposal to take their team to victory lane."
Roush Racing legend Mark Martin will get a little extra Batman power to help him get to Victory Lane, as his Ford will feature a special "Batman Begins" paint scheme for the race. Martin's fellow Roush Racing driver, Ricky Craven, will also be sporting a "Batman Begins" scheme during the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series event on June 18.
Christopher Nolan's "Batman Begins" explores the origins of the Batman legend and the Dark Knight's emergence as a force for good in Gotham. In the wake of his parents' murder, disillusioned industrial heir Bruce Wayne (CHRISTIAN BALE) travels the world seeking the means to fight injustice and turn fear against those who prey on the fearful. He returns to Gotham and unveils his alter-ego: Batman, a masked crusader who uses his strength, intellect and an array of high tech deceptions to fight the sinister forces that threaten the city.
Race fans will have a front-row seat for a one-of-a-kind celebration of the film's launch when the Batmobile from the film leads the pack of 43 race cars off of pit road to start the battle for the checkered flag.
"We are very proud to be making history with the Batman Begins 400 at MIS, and to again be partnering with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, DC Comics, and Roush Racing," said Michigan International Speedway President, Brett Shelton. "Our fans really enjoyed the Justice League racing weekend last August and I know it will be another outstanding weekend of racing. This race sponsorship certainly adds to our history of putting super heroes in Victory Lane at MIS."
