McLaren secures Etihad as Official Partner from 2026

The agreement links one of Formula 1’s most recognisable teams with the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, aligning McLaren’s global race programme with Etihad’s expanding network of more than 100 destinations worldwide.

Etihad branding will appear prominently on the McLaren F1 cars, including the MCL40’s rear wing and halo, as well as on driver helmets. The branding will also feature on the McLaren United Autosports WEC Hypercar entry, extending the partnership across both premier racing programmes.

Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, welcomed the agreement: “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.”

The partnership is structured around McLaren’s global calendar. As the team competes across Formula 1 and the FIA World Endurance Championship, Etihad will support operations through its network connecting destinations such as the UAE, Australia, China, Japan, the UK, Spain, Italy and the US.

In addition to trackside branding, the deal includes digital and experiential rights aimed at enhancing fan engagement throughout the season.

Antonoaldo Neves, Group CEO of Etihad Airways, outlined the airline’s ambitions: “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.”

Later this year, Etihad will introduce a McLaren Racing branded livery on one of its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The move extends the partnership beyond the paddock, placing McLaren’s identity into global airspace as part of Etihad’s long term commitment to motorsport.

Etihad has served as title sponsor of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix since 2009, reinforcing its established presence within the sport.

For McLaren, the agreement strengthens its commercial platform ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 regulation cycle, as the team continues to expand its footprint across both grand prix racing and endurance competition.