We've already discussed Linux and its presence in some systems and servers used in Formula 1, both in the electronic control units of the cars and in the development of supercomputers for CFD. However, you might be wondering if Tux has ever taken an IndyCar around the banked oval of the Indianapolis 500.
And indeed, Linux has been present in IndyCar, in car number 77, during this legendary motorsport event. It's also present in other systems used for the development of these Dallara chassis and other components, and not just as a sponsor.
It's certainly an interesting fact that an IndyCar car featured direct Linux advertising. Placing a logo on these types of cars is extremely expensive, and it's not the style of many foundations and development communities. But this was achieved thanks to Bob Moore , who provided the necessary funding.
It was a blue single-seater called the Linux Car, from the Chastain Motorsport team . It participated in the 91st running of the Indianapolis 500. Unfortunately, it was the first vehicle to crash on race day, a major blow for the more geeky fans who followed the event. And there were plenty of geeky jokes, comparing the car to the Windows Blue Screen of Death, etc.
Will we see it again? The truth is, advertising already exists for systems that use Linux as a base, such as AWS, Azure, etc., but it will be difficult to see direct sponsorship of an open-source project, since displaying a logo or brand typically costs anywhere from €10.000 to €500.000 or more, depending on the size and visibility. That's far too much money for many developers or communities who don't need that kind of advertising…