McLaren Racing teams up with Etihad Airways for global 2026 campaign
Partnership extends to fan experiences and digital engagement worldwide
DUBAI – McLaren Racing has officially announced Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national carrier, as an Official Partner of the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team and McLaren United Autosports WEC Hypercar Team for the 2026 season and beyond.
The partnership unites two organisations with a shared focus on innovation, ambition and delivering exceptional experiences for fans and customers worldwide.
The collaboration aims to bring fans closer to the action, leveraging Etihad’s extensive network of more than 100 destinations, while supporting McLaren across key racing series in locations including the UAE, Australia, China, Japan, the UK, Spain, Italy and the US.
Racing integration
Under the deal, Etihad branding will feature prominently across McLaren race cars, including the MCL40’s rear wing and halo, as well as on driver helmets. Both Formula 1 and WEC teams will benefit from extensive digital and experiential rights, enabling immersive fan experiences throughout the season.
Later this year, the partnership will extend to the skies with a McLaren-branded livery on one of Etihad’s flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliners, highlighting the airline’s commitment to racing and connecting fans worldwide.
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, said: “We’re excited to welcome Etihad Airways as an Official Partner. As we travel to more races around the world, working with a global airline that shares our passion for excellence is a natural fit. Etihad’s commitment to delivering high quality experiences aligns strongly with our values and we look forward to working closely together across both Formula 1 and WEC.”
Antonoaldo Neves, Group CEO of Etihad Airways, added: “Today, we are thrilled to team up with McLaren Racing to begin an extraordinary partnership. Formula 1 racing brings together fans from around the world in one of the most exhilarating sports, and we’re excited to see the Etihad brand across the 2026 McLaren car as it competes worldwide. In celebration of the partnership, we will also unveil a stunning new aircraft livery designed with McLaren branding, which will fly across the fast-growing Etihad network engaging with fans around the world.”