McLaren F1 will once again be supported by Segafredo Zanetti
McLaren announced the return of a brand that had a long presence in F1, notably with Ayrton Senna, Segafredo Zanetti.
It has been exactly 20 years since the world’s largest coffee group, Segafredo Zanetti, has been absent from F1. The reason is that it long supported Ayrton Senna and withdrew from the paddocks after the Brazilian champion’s death on May 1, 1994. The history between the two goes way back, as it supported him during his first F1 season, ten years earlier.
The story of the brand’s return is also a man’s affair as Massimo Zanetti, the CEO of the eponymous group, stated: « Emotionally, my long friendship with Ayrton Senna also influenced my decision to return to McLaren. On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of his death, it seemed appropriate to restart Segafredo Zanetti’s involvement in Formula 1. This also underscores my commitment to my long-term relationship with Ron Dennis. »
Indeed, Segafredo Zanetti was also a sponsor of the Woking team between 1984 and 1986, which allowed it to be associated with drivers like Niki Lauda or Alain Prost. Ron Dennis declared: « I am personally delighted that Massimo Zanetti has chosen to return to Formula 1 with McLaren. He has long supported McLaren and Ayrton Senna, and his passion for motorsports influences the entire Segafredo Zanetti brand. »
The brand’s logo will therefore be visible on the rear wing and the suits of Jenson Button and Kevin Magnussen starting from the Monza Grand Prix qualifying. However, in order to maximize its media exposure depending on the circuits where F1 will travel, it is the Boncafé brand that will be visible during races in the Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.
From our special correspondent in Monza