NASCAR(R) Drivers Find Perfect Harmony on the Racetrack in New Coca-Cola TV Ad

Drivers Demonstrate Singing Skills in New Spot Set to Debut During the DAYTONA 500

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Race fans will see a whole new side of their favorite drivers as some of the sport's biggest stars show off their singing abilities in Coca-Cola's latest television commercial set to debut during the DAYTONA 500 (Sunday, Feb. 14, 1 p.m. on FOX).

The new spot, entitled "Harmony," offers a NASCAR(R) twist on one of the most popular commercials ever - Coca-Cola's iconic "Hilltop," which first aired in 1971 - as several drivers belt out the famous song, "I'd Like To Buy The World A Coke" while battling one another on the racetrack. In the ad, Coca-Cola Racing Family members Greg Biffle, Clint Bowyer, Jeff Burton, Denny Hamlin, Kevin Harvick, Bobby Labonte, Joey Logano, Ryan Newman, David Ragan, Elliott Sadler and Tony Stewart show how even the most competitive rivals can Open Happiness with Coca-Cola.

"In the original ad, Coca-Cola was the bond that connected people through a spirit of optimism. That uplifting outlook still rings true today and is reflected in our NASCAR(R)-themed commercial in a fun, unexpected way," said Katie Bayne, Chief marketing Officer, Coca-Cola North America. "By showing how a refreshing Coca-Cola can bring together even the most competitive rivals, we're reminding people to take a moment to have fun, open a little happiness and enjoy the simple pleasures in life."

In the opening scene, controlled chaos ensues as the drivers pull into the pits, complaining to their crew chiefs over the radio and calling for adjustments. Before heading back onto the track, the drivers are each handed an ice-cold Coca-Cola for much needed refreshment. As crew chiefs and fans monitor driver radio chatter, they quickly find that the previously exasperated drivers have changed their tune - literally - as they're seen singing the signature song's familiar lines during the heat of battle, complete with "apple trees and honey bees and snow white turtledoves."

"I'd Like To Buy The World A Coke," the iconic song from "Hilltop" which was written in less than 24 hours, became an instant hit and inspired numerous renditions, including three top 40 versions of I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing. Within 10 days of the U.S. release of "Hilltop," The Coca-Cola Company received 10,000 letters from people expressing support for the message in the ad.

"It's been both fun and an honor to be a part of creating a new NASCAR(R) take on a commercial that is such a big part of Coke's history," said driver Kevin Harvick. "Most of us drivers should probably stick to our day jobs, though, because I'm pretty sure our version of the famous Coca-Cola song won't make it to the top of the charts."

Fans can visit www.MyCokeRewards.com to hear exclusive audio of the drivers singing "I'd Like To Buy The World A Coke." In addition, a video featuring behind-the-scenes footage and the "Harmony" ad is available at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JicPpfq15Bo. The commercial was created by Wieden + Kennedy in Portland, Ore. and was filmed on location at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina in December 2009.

Coca-Cola and NASCAR(R)

The Coca-Cola Racing Family is a group of top drivers that includes Greg Biffle, Clint Bowyer, Jeff Burton, Denny Hamlin, Kevin Harvick, Bobby Labonte, Joey Logano, Ryan Newman, David Ragan, Elliott Sadler, Tony Stewart, and alumni drivers Kyle Petty, Michael Waltrip, Dale Jarrett and Ned Jarrett. Coca-Cola is the Official Sparkling Beverage of NASCAR(R) and has been involved with stock car racing for more than 40 years.

About The Coca-Cola Company

The Coca-Cola Company is the world's largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with nearly 500 sparkling and still brands. Along with Coca-Cola, recognized as the world's most valuable brand, the Company's portfolio includes 12 other billion dollar brands, including Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, POWERADE, Minute Maid and Georgia Coffee. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, juices and juice drinks and ready-to-drink teas and coffees. Through the world's largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company's beverages at a rate of nearly 1.6 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that protect the environment, conserve resources and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. For more information about our Company, please visit our Web site at www.thecoca-colacompany.com.

    Source: Coca-Cola and NASCAR

Released February 10, 2010