T.J. Zizzo never gave up hope.

Weeks before the 2014 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series season began, he was notified that his major sponsor would not return. A tough blow for any drag racer, Zizzo believed this was a matter of one door closing and another one opening.

Zizzo announced Friday during the NHRA U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis the signing of a major sponsorship deal with protective paints and coatings giant Rust-Oleum.

T.J. Zizzo never gave up hope.

Weeks before the 2014 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series season began, he was notified that his major sponsor would not return. A tough blow for any drag racer, Zizzo believed this was a matter of one door closing and another one opening.

Zizzo announced Friday during the NHRA U.S. Nationals at Indianapolis the signing of a major sponsorship deal with protective paints and coatings giant Rust-Oleum.

“The door closing opened one for Rust-Oleum and I couldn’t be more excited,” Zizzo said.

Just knowing he was part of the plan was one of his greatest victories.

“It took three years to put this program together,” said Zizzo. “When Rust-Oleum confirmed that we were part of their marketing plan, I cannot begin to tell you how excited I was to be a part of their program in the drag racing world. This is new territory for them, and knowing they’ve never sponsored a professional drag racing car full-time makes it even better.”

Zizzo said the sponsorship was secured prior to the NHRA Route 66 Nationals and for him the challenge of keeping the new deal out of the rumor mills and off of the message boards was often as challenging as tuning a 10,000 horsepower Top Fuel dragster.

“It was a challenge and even more so because I was so excited,” said Zizzo. “We had a few slip-ups along the way but for the most part we are able to keep it under wraps pretty good.”

Zizzo said his association with Rust-Oleum began through his successful auto body business and use of their products as well as product testing.

Beyond racing, Rust-Oleum and Zizzo have worked together for years to conduct product testing and research.
     
“Rust-Oleum Automotive is always looking for new opportunities to enhance and create innovative products for car enthusiasts,” said Mac O’Brien, director of Automotive Brands for Rust-Oleum. “This relationship has been beneficial for both parties. We are proud to work with such a prestigious and dedicated driver who is passionate about his work and giving back to the community.”

Now, Zizzo wants to give back to Rust-Oleum for having faith in him.

“We have a good solid plan moving forward and we will roll that out as the stages of activation progress,” Zizzo said. “I will say the drag racing community perfectly complements our activation plan.”

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