By Greg Hazley
Austin-based PR agency Hahn has picked up U.S. PR duties for Formula 1, the global racing phenomenon that will be setting up shop in Texas for 10 years starting in 2012.
Last year, Austin was awarded hosting duties for the Formula 1 U.S. Grand Prix from 2012-2021 on a 900-acre track facility under construction. The U.S. race, which first ran in 1908, has not been held since 2007 in Indianapolis, although Formula 1 racing takes place around the world and is considered among the top three global sporting events behind the Olympics and World Cup.
Thirty-six-year-old Hahn was formerly Bonner Inc. and TateAustin and also has operations in San Antonio and Corpus Christi.
Jeff Hahn, a former Motorola communications exec who bought the agency in 2007, told O’Dwyer’s that a number of referrals set up the opportunity for his firm to pitch the account.
Formula 1 U.S. has also hired Austin-based ad agency Exopolis for creative.
Sandy West, VP of corporate affairs for Formula 1 U.S., said the project was looking for agencies that could make a full commitment to the work. “We are creating a world-class business and entertainment destination,” she said.
The bid effort to bring Formula 1 racing to Texas is backed by Clear Channel Communications co-founder Red McCombs and former NASCAR driver Tavo Hellmund.
The Texas track is expected to hold 120,000 fans. |