FORMULA ONE team McLaren has this week announced partnership renewals with Swiss luxury watch company TAG Heuer and Italian car accessory organisation Sparco.
The deal with TAG Heuer is an expansion on their previous agreement. As well as continuing to supply the British team’s official timepiece, the agreement will be extended to include McLaren Automotive, the high-performance sports car arm of the McLaren group.
The watch manufacturers will also support McLaren’s Young Driver Development Programme, with new driver Sergio Perez joining team-mate Jenson Button as an ambassador for the brand.
In celebration of McLaren’s 50th anniversary, the TAG Heuer logo will now be visible on the rear spoiler of McLaren cars, as well as on the drivers’ suits and team apparel.
The Sparco deal sees the Turin-based company continue to supply McLaren with parts such as safety belts, steering wheels and race suits, extending an association that dates back to 1996.
As an Official Supplier, the Italian manufacturers will also have branding on the team’s official website and on the race products used.
By Robin Jellis
Follow Robin on Twitter: @robinjellis