Exclusive licensing deal grants software publishing rights on all platforms.

GT Interactive have signed an exclusive, multi-year licensing deal with IMS Properties for rights to the Indianapolis 500 racing league. The deal allows GT to make games using the league, its cars and drivers, as well as the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway, across all computer and console platforms. The agreement is global in reach.

“For nearly 90 years the Indianapolis 500 has been the premier event in the world of racing, and we are excited to partner with IMS Properties in bringing this great event into the interactive arena,” said Thomas Heymann, chairman and CEO of GT Interactive. “Adding the incredible popularity and success of the Pep Boys Indy Racing League, the top open-wheel oval racing series provides us with an incredible licence.”

GT’s deal comes only a week after Electronic Arts struck a similar deal for the Formula One licence, suggesting increased competition for racing licences.

In other GT Interactive news, the company is relocating its headquarters from New York to Burbank, CA.