The agreement
Just over a week before the start of the 2026 season, the Emirati airline Etihad Airways has announced the official partnership reached with McLaren, which includes a sponsorship agreement from 2027 for the Woking-based manufacturer’s debut in the WEC. The reigning world champion team will thus take to the track with the brand present on the rear wing and the halo of the MCL40, with the same logo also appearing on the drivers’ helmets.
Between brands and liveries
The partnership highlights the shared commitment of Etihad and McLaren to innovation, ambition, and providing experiences for fans and customers around the world. Additionally, during the year, the United Arab Emirates’ state-owned airline will take flight with a special Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Etihad Airways’ flagship aircraft, which will feature a ‘papaya’ livery and the British team’s branding.
Underlining the excitement for the handshake reached with McLaren’s top management was Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of the Etihad Airways Group: “Today we are excited to partner with McLaren Racing to begin an extraordinary partnership. Formula 1 brings together fans from all over the world in one of the most exciting sports, and we are thrilled to see the Etihad brand on the 2026 McLaren as it competes worldwide. To celebrate the partnership, we will also unveil a stunning new aircraft livery designed with McLaren branding, which will fly across Etihad’s rapidly growing network, engaging fans around the world.”
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The statements from Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, were also not to be missed: “We are excited to welcome Etihad Airways as an Official Partner. We are participating in more and more races around the world, and partnering with a global airline that shares our passion for excellence is a natural fit. Etihad’s commitment to delivering high-quality experiences is strongly aligned with our values, and we look forward to working closely together in both Formula 1 and the WEC.”
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