This article is based on an official press release from Etihad Airways and includes analysis based on industry data.

McLaren Racing and Etihad Airways Announce Strategic Partnership for 2026 Season

McLaren Racing has officially confirmed a new multi-year agreement with Etihad Airways, designating the United Arab Emirates’ national carrier as its Official Airline Partner. The collaboration is set to commence with the 2026 season, covering both the McLaren Formula 1 Team and its World Endurance Championship (WEC) operations.

According to the announcement from Etihad, this partnerships represents a significant expansion of the airline’s footprint in motorsport, moving beyond its long-standing role as a race title sponsor to a direct team alliance. The deal will see the airline’s branding integrated into key team assets while utilizing McLaren’s global platform to support Etihad’s international growth strategy.

Scope of the Partnership

The agreement outlines a comprehensive branding package that spans multiple racing series and aviation assets. Beginning in 2026, Etihad Airways branding will be visible on the McLaren Formula 1 team’s challenger, the MCL40. Specifically, the airline’s logo will appear on the rear wing and halo of the car, as well as on the helmets of drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

Beyond Formula 1, the partnership extends to the FIA World Endurance Championship. Etihad will feature on the McLaren United Autosports Hypercar entry, ensuring visibility across two of the world’s premier racing categories.

The McLaren-Liveried Dreamliner

A central component of the partnership is the creation of a bespoke aviation asset. Etihad Airways has confirmed plans to paint a flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner in a special McLaren Racing livery. This aircraft will operate across Etihad’s global route network, serving as a roving ambassador for the partnership.

In a statement regarding the collaboration, Antonoaldo Neves, Group CEO of Etihad Airways, highlighted the synergy between the two brands:

“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… we will also unveil a stunning new aircraft livery designed with McLaren branding.”

Strategic Context and Market Impact

AirPro News analysis

While the official press release focuses on the branding assets, AirPro News notes that this move signals an intensification of the “airline wars” currently playing out within the Formula 1 paddock. Middle Eastern carriers are increasingly utilizing the sport as a primary vehicle for global marketing.

Etihad has held the naming rights to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix since 2009, but this team-specific deal marks a strategic pivot toward year-round visibility. By aligning with McLaren, Etihad places itself in direct competition for share of voice with regional rivals such as Qatar Airways, which serves as a Global Airline Partner for F1 and sponsors the Alpine team, and Saudia, which is aligned with Aston Martin.

This partnership also aligns with Etihad’s “Journey 2030” strategy, which aims to triple passenger numbers to 33 million by the end of the decade. Partnering with a team that travels to key hubs across the UK, Europe, Asia, and Australia mirrors the airline’s own logistical network requirements.

Industry estimates suggest that “Official Partner” tier deals involving major logistical and branding assets typically range between $15 million and $30 million annually, though the specific financial terms of this agreement remain confidential. For McLaren CEO Zak Brown, this addition brings another blue-chip partner to a roster that is already the largest on the grid, further insulating the team’s revenue streams from on-track volatility.

Executive Commentary

Both organizations have framed the deal as a convergence of shared values regarding innovation and customer experience. Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, emphasized the logistical benefits of the alliance:

“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.”

The partnership will also include extensive digital and experiential rights, likely leveraging Etihad’s previous investments in immersive technology to engage fans globally.

Sources: Etihad Airways