Guthrie secured major sponsorship from Texaco Star in 1980.
In 1980, Janet Guthrie broke new ground as the first woman to receive major corporate sponsorship in domestic oval racing, through a partnership with Texaco Star. While the exact date is not known, this sponsorship was a significant milestone, as it signaled commercial endorsement of a female in motorsports, marking a shift in the perception and opportunities for women in racing. This achievement helped to dismantle financial barriers, making it feasible for more women to pursue competitive racing.