For the upcoming NASCAR race at Watkins Glen International, Bubba Wallace will race a striking car sponsored by McDonald’s featuring a pink McDonaldland theme. This bold design highlights the return of McDonaldland, marking a fresh partnership that brings nostalgia to the track this weekend.
McDonaldland’s Comeback Celebrated with Special Meal and Collectibles
23XI Racing announced their journey to McDonaldland with a presence at Watkins Glen. McDonald’s has relaunched McDonaldland with a featured meal including a Quarter Pounder® with Cheese or a 10-piece Chicken McNuggets®, paired with a specialty shake. Customers who purchase the McDonaldland Meal will receive one of six exclusive collectible tins containing postcards, stickers, and more.
The iconic characters from McDonaldland, such as Ronald McDonald, Grimace, Birdie, Hamburglar, Mayor McCheese, and the Fry Friends, originally appeared in television commercials in the 1970s but have been absent from meals for the past 20 years.
McDonald’s Marketing Chief Discusses the Revival of McDonaldland
Jennifer “JJ” Healan, McDonald’s vice president of U.S. marketing, brand, content, and culture, shared insights about the resurgence of McDonaldland.
“But many, especially the new generation, don’t know that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There’s an entire magical world of McDonaldland filled with characters, places and lore.”
—JJ Healan, Vice President of U.S. Marketing, McDonald’s
“And so, for the first time in decades we are taking fans on a trip to McDonaldland with an immersive experience that taps into the past to create the future. It’s a chance for us to give fans a new, modern way to experience this magical world.”
—JJ Healan, Vice President of U.S. Marketing, McDonald’s
Bubba Wallace’s Momentum in the NASCAR Cup Series Continues
Bubba Wallace recently earned his first victory of the 2025 NASCAR season, securing his spot in the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. His performance adds excitement around the McDonaldland car debut at Watkins Glen.
Earlier this year, Wallace narrowly avoided an object thrown by a fan at the Indianapolis race, an incident that drew attention to his resilience on and off the track.
Visual Details of Bubba Wallace’s McDonaldland-Themed Racecar
The unique design of Bubba Wallace’s car prominently features the pink McDonaldland theme, combining nostalgic elements with modern racing aesthetics. This design will be on display as he competes at Watkins Glen International, creating a memorable visual for fans and collectors alike.
The Broader Significance of McDonaldland’s Return to NASCAR
McDonald’s partnership with Bubba Wallace and the reintroduction of McDonaldland characters through the racecar paint scheme represent a creative blend of brand heritage and contemporary sports marketing. This initiative is set to engage both longtime fans and a new generation, revitalizing the cultural footprint of McDonaldland while supporting Wallace’s racing journey.
