McLaren reveals one-off livery for Abu Dhabi F1 finale

The bespoke version of its usual blue-and-papaya colour scheme has been designed by United Arab Emirates-based artist Rabab Tantawy as part of the Drive for Change campaign to showcase the work of under-represented artists aged over 25.

McLaren said the initiative is “a part of Vuse’s ongoing commitment to offer unique platforms to spotlight up-and-coming talent”. 

“We are excited to bring the art and motorsport worlds together in a ground-breaking way, by sporting Rabab Tantawy’s artwork on our race cars at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix,” said McLaren’s chief marketing officer Claire Cronin. 

“Together with Vuse, Driven by Change is a unique opportunity to use our global stage to support rising talent, giving undiscovered creatives the platform they deserve. 

“Rabab’s art is inspiring, and we are proud to take her papaya-influenced creation racing this weekend.”

It will mark the second time this season that McLaren has raced in a special livery after Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo drove in a Gulf-inspired design at the Monaco Grand Prix in May. 

Head of brand building at McLaren Racing partner’s BAT, John Beasley, added: “We have bold ambitions to shift the paradigm with our partnership with McLaren Racing by providing support and opportunities for talent as we further champion the diversity of people and skills in the creative world. 

“Rabab has been an incredible talent to work with for the launch of the programme, with her passion for diversity and togetherness, and artistic skill set to transform the track in Abu Dhabi. 

“We look forward to working with Rabab further as she helps us continue to influence change in not only motorsport, but the creative industry as a whole.”