“FedEx 400 benefiting Autism Speaks” to be held at Dover International Speedway on May 15, 2011

FedEx Corp., Autism Speaks and Dover International Speedway today announced that the Sprint Cup race at Dover International Speedway on May 15, 2011 will be named the “FedEx 400 benefiting Autism Speaks.”

As part of the race sponsorship, and to help increase public awareness of autism and raise funds for continued research, there will be opportunities for fans to show their support through special ticket packages and unique race-weekend experiences.  In addition, FedEx will make a donation of $ 100,000 to Autism Speaks if Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 FedEx Toyota Camry, wins the race.

“We’re honored to be selected by Dover International Speedway and FedEx as the charity choice for the FedEx 400 benefiting Autism Speaks,” said Mark Roithmayr, president of Autism Speaks.  “Autism affects one percent of the U.S. population and included in that number are many fans of NASCAR.  This sponsorship will help raise awareness and much needed funds for those families and our community as a whole.”

FedEx has sponsored the #11 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series team of Joe Gibbs Racing since the beginning of the 2005 season and has a long history of supporting sports teams, leagues and franchises.  The FedEx 400 benefiting Autism Speaks marks the first time they have sponsored a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race.

“FedEx has the unique opportunity to help support the mission of Autism Speaks as the official sponsor of the FedEx 400 at Dover International Speedway,” said T. Michael Glenn, executive vice president of Market Development at FedEx.  “Joining forces for a great cause is a win for both racing fans and supporters of the important work of Autism Speaks.  We are extremely proud of Denny and the #11 FedEx Racing team and are also incredibly proud of the commitment to charity that is a hallmark of FedEx and our team members worldwide.” Fans are encouraged to show their support for Autism Speaks by taking advantage of the following opportunities.

– Special FedEx 400 Race Charity Ticket Package: The package, priced at $ 111, offers two tickets (regularly priced at $ 84 each) to the May 15 event with proceeds going directly to Autism Speaks. Supplies are limited and fans are encouraged to visit www.DoverSpeedway.com/fedex400 or call the Dover ticket office at 800-441-RACE and mention “FedEx 111.”

– Race Weekend Experience Auctions: The premier package is highlighted by the opportunity to wave the green flag to start the Cup race after joining the Sprint Cup drivers on stage for driver introductions.  The package also includes two all-access pit passes, a garage tour, overnight accommodations in the Dover Downs Hotel & Casino, luxury suite passes, and a green flag signed by the starting lineup of the race. A second package features two seats in the unique Monster Bridge.   Proceeds from the auction go to Autism Speaks. Visit DoverSpeedway.com and click on the Autism Speaks button to place a bid.

– Support Autism Speaks Directly: Fans can text “autism” to “25383” to donate instantly.  Standard messaging charges apply and the donation will appear as a charge on your cell phone bill.  In addition, donation locations will also be set up during the race weekend for those fans interested in donating on-site to Autism Speaks.

Dover Motorsports PR