United Arab Emirates-based Etihad Airways has signed an official partnership agreement with Formula 1 team McLaren Racing. Under the partnership, the airline will support both the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team and McLaren United Autosports, which competes in the Hypercar category of the World Endurance Championship (WEC).
As part of the agreement, Etihad Airways logos will appear on the rear wings and Halo systems of McLaren’s MCL40 Formula 1 cars during the 2026 season, as well as on the drivers’ helmets. The two companies will also collaborate on promotional activities and fan engagement initiatives.
To celebrate the partnership, Etihad Airways unveiled a Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, registered A6-BMI, featuring a special McLaren Racing livery in Abu Dhabi. The aircraft carries McLaren’s distinctive papaya orange and black colours.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by Etihad Airways CEO Antonoaldo Neves, McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown and two-time Formula 1 World Champion Mika Häkkinen.
According to the companies, the specially painted aircraft is the first widebody passenger aircraft to feature the colours of a Formula 1 team.
Etihad Airways has a long-standing relationship with motorsport, having served as the title sponsor of the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix since 2009.
