McLaren-Honda announces Chandon partnership

McLaren-Honda reveals sparkling wine product Chandon as its new sponsor in the Formula One world championship.

The announcement was made official on Wednesday at the Mclaren Technology Centre in Woking and signed by Moët Hennessy CEO and chairman Christophe Navarre and McLaren boss Ron Dennis.

“The McLaren Honda Formula 1 Team's story is characterised by human endeavour, filled with heroic champions who have stood on sport's global stage”, said Navarre. “This is a team that seizes the moment and remains open to new challenges.

“Chandon couldn't be happier to partner with the McLaren Honda Formula 1 Team. This is a rich new occasion to bring our fans together around the world, and to enjoy the depth of this connection.”

The long-term partnership will begin in 2016, with the Chandon logo replacing Johnny Walker on each side of the McLaren nosecone. The whisky brand has been bringing £15 million a year for the past decade but is set to leave the British outfit at the end of the current campaign.

Despite Honda returning to F1 this year, Woking had failed to attract significant backers, with racing director Eric Boullier admitting that McLaren was hurt commercially by its on-track struggles.

However, It remains to be seen whether the arrival of Chandon will result in a massive financial boost for a team that has been without a title sponsor since Vodafone left after the 2013 season.

“It is extremely exciting that Moët Hennessy has chosen to join with the McLaren Honda team through Chandon to form a unique, long-term partnership,” said Dennis.

“The fit between Chandon and McLaren Honda is a natural one, with both sharing a passion to innovate in whatever we do, combined with a unique style and approach.

“It is a great privilege for everyone at McLaren Honda to partner with Chandon, one of the iconic brands in the prestigious Moët Hennessy portfolio.”

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