McLaren bucks trend with partnership extensions.

The recent announcement regarding the continuation of West McLaren Mercedes' technology partnership with Computer Associates marked the ninth long-term extension that the team has secured this year, sending a resounding message of confidence in the team.

"We are always very pleased when one of our long-term partners extend their relationship with the company, a sentiment that is heightened given the current economic climate," explained team boss and CEO Ron Dennis, "In times like these, the need for organisations to differentiate themselves is further increased, and this latest extension illustrates Computer Associates confidence in the team, the value of such partnerships and is a further demonstration that Formula One has not lost its
commercial appeal."

"During the past twelve months, McLaren has also established three new partnerships - with AMEC, the global services company, media giants Bloomberg and Italian furniture solutions provider FARAM joining our world class partner group. It is a clear indication that, as the sport moves into the new markets of China and the Middle East, the team and Formula One continue to deliver a valuable marketing platform."

In a year when the sport has lost both Prost and Arrows, confidence is at a premium, and teams at the back of the grid can only hope to find the sort of relationships that McLaren now boasts.

"Formula One is actually the most important international sport," said Mercedes motorsport VP Norbert Haug, "Our sponsor partners show their willingness to compete in the same way as we do. They create top products and are in many cases market leaders. Especially in times of difficult general economic conditions, a sense of solidarity between team and sponsor partners is essential. I'm delighted that this solidarity is existing in the very best sense at West McLaren Mercedes."