F1 News: Huge Sponsor Jumps From Ferrari To McLaren In Worrying Move

Ferrari lost yet another sponsor this year.

Estrella Galicia, the Spanish beer brand that previously sponsored Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz, has left Ferrari to rejoin its former partner McLaren Racing, a collaboration that dates back to 2019 and 2020. This departure marks the second sponsorship exit for the Maranello outfit, following Bang & Olufsen - worrying news.

The drinks brand was on board Ferrari since Sainz's debut season in 2015. But for unknown reasons, it decided to rebuild its old association with McLaren that "not only shares common values such as authenticity, craftsmanship, and innovation but also a strong spirit of differentiation and a non-conformist attitude".

There isn't much news about B&O's leaving of Ferrari either since it was silently taken off the Red team's official website. However, it is quite common for brands to end old associations and partner with other teams before a new F1 season begins. 

In the case of Estrella Galicia, the fresh association with the Papaya team will see the beer branding on the overalls of drivers Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, and the crew members. Quite obviously, the badging will also sport on McLaren's 2024 title contender. 

Speaking on Estrella Galicia's renewed ties with McLaren, Matt Dennington, executive director of partnerships at McLaren, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Estrella Galicia back to the McLaren Racing family. We enjoyed a fantastic partnership throughout 2019 and 2020, and it is great to now continue our journey together.

“We’re excited about the upcoming season and building on the positive momentum we had last year, and it’s fantastic to go racing with Estrella Galicia alongside us.” 

Estrella Galicia chief marketing officer Jose Cabanas added:

“As part of our internationalisation process, having great partners alongside you is a key factor for success.

“McLaren Racing and Estrella Galicia not only share common values such as authenticity, craftmanship, and innovation but also a strong spirit of differentiation and a non-conformist attitude in everything they do.

“We are thrilled to start a new chapter in our F1 journey in papaya colours and I’m sure that we will have great things to toast for during the season.”