Hope on Wheels: Hyundai Brings The Mark of a Warrior Campaign to Indianapolis

September is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and Hyundai is using its presence at Indianapolis Motor Speedway to shine a spotlight on an important cause: supporting children and families affected by pediatric cancer.

Through Hyundai Hope on Wheels, Hyundai Motor America has spent more than three decades supporting pediatric cancer research and treatment programs across the United States. This year, the organization is taking that mission to the racetrack with its new The Mark of a Warrior campaign, and a special Hyundai Elantra N TCR race car livery at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

For Hyundai drivers and fans, it is another example of how the Hyundai brand is working to make an impact beyond the vehicles it builds.

What Is Hyundai Hope on Wheels?

Hyundai Hope on Wheels is a nonprofit organization established by Hyundai dealers and Hyundai Motor America to support pediatric cancer research and treatment.

One of the organization’s most recognizable traditions is the Hyundai Hope on Wheels handprint. Young cancer patients place their painted handprints on vehicles as a symbol of hope, courage and resilience. Those handprints have become an enduring part of Hyundai’s efforts to recognize children fighting cancer.

Throughout its history, Hyundai Hope on Wheels has provided funding to hospitals and researchers working to improve treatment options and outcomes for children with cancer.

The organization also gives Hyundai owners, dealers, and communities an opportunity to get involved and help support the cause.

What Is The Mark of a Warrior?

For National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month 2026, Hyundai Hope on Wheels is introducing The Mark of a Warrior, a nationwide campaign celebrating young cancer patients and the people who support them.

At the heart of the campaign is the familiar Hyundai Hope on Wheels handprint. Rather than simply representing a child’s battle with cancer, the handprint serves as a lasting symbol of courage, hope, and the communities surrounding young patients throughout their treatment.

The campaign includes a 60-second cinematic film called Little Warrior, which highlights the experiences and spirit of children battling pediatric cancer.

Hyundai is also sharing stories from real-life childhood cancer warriors, including Jackson, through the campaign’s online platform.

The goal is to raise awareness while encouraging communities across the country to recognize and support children and families affected by pediatric cancer.

Hyundai Hope on Wheels Comes to Indianapolis Motor Speedway

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is usually associated with speed, competition, and some of the most recognizable racing in the world. During the 2026 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge season, however, the track is also becoming a platform for Hyundai Hope on Wheels.

The No. 33 Hyundai Elantra N TCR, driven by Mason Filippi and Bryson Morris for Bryan Herta Autosport, is competing with a special Hyundai Hope on Wheels The Mark of a Warrior handprint livery.

The distinctive design brings the campaign’s message directly onto the racetrack, helping introduce more racing fans to the work of Hyundai Hope on Wheels.

Filippi and Morris are also scheduled to visit Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis, where Hyundai Hope on Wheels will continue its tradition of supporting pediatric cancer care. A special handprint ceremony and donation are planned as part of race-week activities.

The weekend will also include Isabella, a 2026 Hyundai Hope on Wheels National Youth Ambassador.

Hyundai Is Turning Race Laps Into Support for Pediatric Cancer

Hyundai’s involvement with Hope on Wheels isn’t limited to raising awareness.

For the third consecutive IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge season, Hyundai Hope on Wheels is donating $100 for every lap led by a Hyundai race car during the season.

Following the most recent race at Virginia International Raceway, the program had generated $77,800 in support for pediatric cancer research and treatment programs nationwide.

The fundraising effort will continue at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, including a donation supporting Riley Hospital for Children.

Even motorsports can be used to aid philanthropy: every lap led by a Hyundai race car can help contribute to a larger effort supporting children battling cancer.

Hyundai Heads to Indianapolis as TCR Championship Leader

While Hyundai is using the Indianapolis race to promote an important cause, the competition on the track is equally significant.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway 120 is the penultimate round of the 2026 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge season, and Hyundai enters the event leading the TCR Manufacturers’ Championship.

The No. 33 Hyundai Elantra N TCR pairing of Bryson Morris and Mason Filippi also leads the Drivers’ Championship with 2,470 points.

The No. 76 Hyundai Elantra N TCR drivers Preston Brown and Denis Dupont sit second with 2,210 points, giving Hyundai the top two positions in the championship standings heading into Indianapolis.

Hyundai currently leads Honda by 120 points in the TCR Manufacturers’ Championship.

2026 Hyundai TCR Championship Standings

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course presents a 2.439-mile, 14-turn challenge for the TCR field. With only two races remaining in the season, every position and championship point matters.

How Can You Support Hyundai Hope on Wheels?

You don’t have to be a professional race car driver or even a motorsports fan to support Hyundai Hope on Wheels.

There are several ways to help bring greater awareness to the fight against pediatric cancer:

• Learn about the The Mark of a Warrior campaign and share the stories of childhood cancer warriors.

• Follow Hyundai Hope on Wheels to learn about its pediatric cancer initiatives and fundraising efforts.

• Support pediatric cancer research and treatment programs through organizations working with children and families affected by cancer.

Small actions can help bring more attention to an issue that affects children and families throughout the country.

See the Hyundai Difference Beyond the Driver’s Seat

Hyundai Hope on Wheels is one part of a much larger Hyundai story.

When you shop for a new Hyundai, you’re looking at a brand with a broad lineup of cars, SUVs and electrified vehicles designed around technology, safety, comfort and everyday practicality. But your relationship with Hyundai doesn’t stop when you drive off the lot.

Local Hyundai dealers are also part of the communities they serve, helping connect drivers with new vehicles while supporting programs and causes that matter to families across the country.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your current vehicle, this can be a great time to explore the latest new Hyundai cars and SUVs and find out which model fits your lifestyle.

Ready to Explore a New Hyundai?

Whether you’re interested in a Hyundai SUV for the family, a fuel-efficient sedan or an electrified Hyundai, our team is here to help you explore your options.

Browse our new Hyundai inventory, check out current offers, or contact our dealership to schedule a test drive.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway 120: When to Watch

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway 120 takes place September 19, 2026, at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana.

The green flag is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. EST, with live streaming coverage available through Peacock and YouTube.

As Hyundai battles for the TCR championship, the No. 33 Elantra N TCR will carry something more meaningful than a racing number onto the track: the Hyundai Hope on Wheels handprint and the message behind The Mark of a Warrior.