McLaren F1 signs up Mastercard as major sponsor

McLaren has signed up American multinational payment card company Mastercard as a major sponsor of the Woking-based F1 team.

Mastercard – whose name appeared on the flanks of the cars of the Jordan team from 1998 to 2001 – had been mulling a return to Formula 1 and was courted by multiple teams before partnering with McLaren, Grand Prix racing’s second most successful team behind Ferrari.

Mastercard’s logo will appear on McLaren’s cars and team kit later this season while its multiyear partnership will give the company’s cardholders exclusive access to the world of Formula 1 and to team papaya through their Priceless Experiences programme.

“We are constantly exploring new ways to bring value to our customers and cardholders," said Raja Rajamannar, Mastercard's Chief Marketing and Communications Officer.

"Getting them closer to their passions, what they love most, is central to this, and racing has become one of the most exhilarating, universal passions globally.

"For many people, McLaren is synonymous with racing – exciting, innovative, purpose-driven. We are thrilled to partner with them and to join our brands together in a meaningful way in the eyes of fans everywhere.”

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McLaren Racing boss Zak Brown said that he is “delighted” to welcome the global payment company onboard, highlighting its “iconic” status in the consumer and financial world.

“Mastercard is an incredible brand with the iconic red and yellow logo instantly recognisable wherever you are in the world," commented Brown.

"Mastercard shares our absolute passion for offering fans fantastic experiences and opportunities to truly feel part of our growing global racing community – and we are delighted to welcome them to the McLaren Racing family."

Mastercard joins rival Visa on the F1 grid, while American Express also enjoys a tie-up directly with the sport itself as a regional partner in the US.

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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.