McLaren and Google unveil Chrome throwback British GP livery

©McLaren

In a nod to its past and to partner Google, McLaren has unveiled a special Chrome throwback livery that will feature on its MCL60 at next weekend's British Grand Prix.

McLaren's striking chrome livery was a fan favourite in F1 from 2006 to 2014, an era during which Lewis Hamilton won his first world title.

The Briton triumphed with the Woking-based outfit - which was also the team's last championship win - in 2008, the same year that Google launched its now popular Google Chrome web browser.

McLaren says the livery is part of the manufacturer's ongoing celebrations of its 60th birthday, which has seen the Formula 1 team and the Arrow McLaren IndyCar team revisit other heritage liveries.

At Silverstone, the Chrome livery will not only be carried on team papaya's cars but it will also feature prominently on the helmet designs and racewear of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

Read also: Norris: Upgraded McLaren's race pace 'better than expected'

"It’s no secret that racing fans love McLaren’s classic chrome livery," commented McLaren Racing boss Zak Brown.

"Google Chrome wanted to bring back elements of this iconic livery to celebrate our team’s history at the British Grand Prix, and we’re excited to be able to give our fans what they want.

"I’m sure this livery will bring back great memories for many of our fans, and I can’t wait to see it out on track at our home race."

Nick Drake, VP Global Marketing for Google, said: "It’s been a privilege for the Google Chrome team to work with McLaren on bringing back elements of an iconic livery to inspire this takeover.

"We were delighted with the fans’ reaction to the branded wheel covers that introduced our partnership, and now Google Chrome is putting chrome back on the McLaren for its home race.

"We’re looking forward to Silverstone and hope all McLaren fans enjoy what promises to be a really exciting weekend of racing."

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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.