Race and classic pictures

Driven by Change: McLaren MCL38 gets special Suzuka livery

©McLaren

McLaren has revealed the special livery that will adorn its F1 cars at the Japanese GP, a change that is part of the team’s "Driven by Change" campaign, a collaboration with partner British American Tobacco (BAT).

The new livery, created by Japanese artist MILTZ draws inspiration from the country’s heritage, and will grace the MCL38 machines of both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri at Suzuka.

The artwork features a powerful dragon soaring through clouds and incorporates elements reminiscent of Edo period calligraphy, adding a unique cultural touch to the high-tech F1 machines.

The Driven by Change campaign, returning for its fourth F1 season, celebrates “emerging creatives through the global motorsport platform, providing opportunities to showcase their innovative artwork to the world”, according to McLaren.

"When I first became a freelance artist, I never thought an opportunity like this was possible - this is the biggest international project I have ever done,” commented designer MILTZ.

"As I continue to build my profile as an artist, I want my artwork to champion the rich traditions of Japanese writing culture, such as Edomoji, but with a modern twist.

“From my work with local businesses in Japan to the McLaren Formula 1 team, there are so many beautiful stories to tell through art."

McLaren Racing's chief marketing officer Louise McEwen added: "We are really excited to bring Driven by Change to Japan for the 2024 iteration of the campaign alongside our partner Vuse.

"Now in its fourth year, we have seen the successes of the campaign in showcasing the incredible creativity of these talented and undiscovered artists for the world to see on our race cars."

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

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