NASCAR, Inc. and Starbridge Media Group, Inc. have signed a multi-year license agreement that grants Starbridge the rights to create, develop, and publish original comic book content under the banner of the NASCAR Library Collection, announced Starbridge CEO Jamie Crittenberger today.

Under the terms of the deal, Starbridge will work in conjunction with NASCAR to develop original characters and to produce unique comic book concepts and varied storylines that appeal to the auto racing leader’s large and diverse fan base. The first publication is scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2007.

“We are excited about the prospect of creating original publishing content for NASCAR’s numerous and growing fans, both young and old,” said NASCAR managing director of licensing Blake Davidson. “Having Starbridge Media Group as our publishing partner will enhance NASCAR’s opportunity to serve this space and meet increased demand from our fans for new material. Starbridge’s background in both sports media and animation production makes them a compelling partner for this new line of publications.”

Starbridge Media Group President Ken Hutman will oversee the creative team. “To have the opportunity to work on this project with a cutting-edge sports organization like NASCAR, on behalf of its incredible fan base, is quite an honor,” said Hutman. “We look forward to publishing compelling and dynamic comic books that appeal to the core values of NASCAR and its fans.”