McLaren F1 announces partnership with Coca-Cola

McLaren has announced a new Formula 1 partnership with iconic drinks brand Coca-Cola ahead of the start of the 2019 season in Australia on Sunday.

McLaren struck a three-race deal with Coca-Cola towards the end of 2018 that saw the team run with Coca-Cola branding in Mexico, Brazil and Abu Dhabi, with a view to a wider deal for 2019.

The new partnership was confirmed on Saturday ahead of qualifying for the Australian Grand Prix.

"The partnership will pair the McLaren Formula 1 team with multiple brands across different beverage categories," a statement from McLaren reads.

"Throughout the season, Coca-Cola will develop consumer events, activities at the points of sale, online promotions, and communication."

"I’m proud that Coca-Cola, one of the most recognised consumer brands and supporters of sports fans in the world, has chosen to extend its partnership with our Formula 1 team," McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown said.

"There was a positive reaction to our 2018 debut as partners on the Formula 1 track and I’m looking forward to us exploring the full potential of this partnership over the coming season."

Ricardo Fort, vice president for sports and entertainment partnerships at Coca-Cola, added: “We are excited to extend and expand our relationship with McLaren for the 2019 racing season. Sponsoring McLaren will allow us to create unique consumer experiences around the world.”