Vodafone And McLaren End F1 Partnership
McLaren and Vodafone have confirmed that their seven-year partnership will end after the 2013 Formula 1 season.
The two formed one of the most successful partnerships in motorsport in 2007, winning 34 Grand Prix’s, the 2008 Drivers’ World Championship and won seven races last season, more than any other team.
According to a statement from Vodafone, the brand has decided to focus its business priorities away from Formula 1 sponsorship. The brand was only McLaren’s fourth title partner in 50 years. McLaren revealed that it would not be commenting on its new title sponsor but would be making an announcement on 2nd December 2013, following the last Grand Prix of the season.
Morten Lundal, Vodafone group chief commercial officer said: ‘Vodafone and McLaren set ourselves highly ambitious goals in 2007. Over the past six years, we’ve set new standards in sports marketing together, and in doing so have achieved all of those objectives. We look forward to continuing to work together throughout the 2013 season.’
Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team principal Martin Whitmarsh said: ‘We’re immensely proud that, having been set a number of ambitious challenges by Vodafone back in 2007, together we’ve met or exceeded each and every one. Our focus is on continuing to drive results for all our partners throughout the 2013 season and we look forward to making a major title partnership announcement towards the end of the year.’
