Aviation News – McLaren Racing has officially designated Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, as an Official Partner for both its Formula 1 and WEC Hypercar teams starting in the 2026 season. This collaboration aligns two globally recognized entities to leverage their shared focus on innovation and international fan engagement.
The multi-year agreement brings together the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team and the McLaren United Autosports WEC Hypercar Team with the UAE’s flagship carrier. This partnership builds upon Etihad’s extensive history in motorsport, specifically its long-standing role as the title sponsor of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a position it has held since 2009.
By utilizing Etihad’s expansive network, which spans over 100 destinations, the collaboration aims to facilitate travel and logistics for the racing teams as they compete across the globe. From major markets in Australia, China, and Japan to European hubs in the UK, Spain, and Italy, and the United States, the airline will play a crucial role in connecting the team to its international racing calendar.
Operationally, the partnership integrates Etihad branding onto critical areas of the McLaren racing assets, including the MCL40’s rear wing and halo, as well as the Formula 1 driver helmets. Beyond static branding, the agreement encompasses comprehensive digital and experiential rights, designed to generate deeper fan engagement opportunities. As a tangible highlight, the airline plans to unveil a special McLaren Racing-themed livery on one of its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft later this year, visually linking the airline’s fleet to the racetrack.
“This partnership brings together two organisations with a shared commitment to innovation, ambition and delivering exceptional experiences for fans and customers around the world,” a company spokesperson noted regarding the strategic importance of this development.
Looking ahead, this alliance signals a broader push toward seamless integration between professional motorsport and global travel infrastructure. By combining McLaren’s competitive engineering prowess with Etihad’s logistical capabilities, both organizations aim to enhance the visibility of the sport while providing enhanced services to fans and stakeholders worldwide.
The partnership represents a significant expansion for both brands as they look toward the 2026 season and beyond. As the McLaren teams prepare for upcoming global circuits, the presence of the Etihad brand will serve as a constant reminder of this international synergy.
