McLaren Racing Strengthens Abu Dhabi Ties with Etihad Airways as Official Partner from 2026

McLaren F1 deepens its connection with Abu Dhabi by signing Etihad Airways as official partner in a multi-year deal starting from the 2026 season.The papaya squad, already supported by Abu Dhabi-linked investments through Bahrain’s Mumtalakat and CYVN Holdings (an Abu Dhabi government investment vehicle), now adds the UAE’s national airline to its rapidly expanding commercial roster.Strategic partnership rooted in Abu DhabiMcLaren Racing has named Etihad Airways an Official Partner of both the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team and the McLaren United Autosports WEC Hypercar program, effective from 2026 and running for multiple years.The move further cements McLaren’s growing relationship with Abu Dhabi. Following last year’s investment involvement by CYVN Holdings alongside Mumtalakat, the partnership now becomes visible on track and in the air.Etihad has long been part of Formula 1 as title sponsor of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix since 2009; this agreement takes that relationship directly onto the McLaren car and into the team’s wider ecosystem.Branding across F1, WEC and the skiesEtihad will enjoy prominent visibility on the 2026 McLaren F1 car (MCL40), featuring on the rear wing and halo, as well as on the drivers’ helmets. The deal also extends to the team’s World Endurance Championship Hypercar entry.The standout element is aviation-themed: Etihad will introduce a special McLaren-branded Boeing 787 Dreamliner into its fleet in 2026. Painted in papaya colours and McLaren Racing graphics, the aircraft will operate across Etihad’s fast-growing global network, serving as a flying billboard and connecting with millions of passengers and F1 fans worldwide.The partnership also includes digital campaigns, fan experiences, and joint activations at race weekends and online.Statements from the leadershipZak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing:
“As we travel to more races around the world, partnering with a global airline that shares our passion for excellence is a natural fit. We’re thrilled to welcome Etihad Airways as an Official Partner.”Antonoaldo Neves, Group CEO of Etihad Airways:
“Today we are delighted to team up with McLaren Racing to begin an extraordinary partnership. To celebrate this collaboration, we will also present a new and spectacular aircraft livery designed with the McLaren brand, which will fly across Etihad’s rapidly growing network, connecting with fans around the world.”