McLaren signs commercial deal with British American Tobacco | sport

British American Tobacco, which withdrew from Formula 1 in 2006, when tobacco advertising was banned from the sport, must return to a "global partnership" with McLaren. BAT is the second tobacco company to use F1 to publicize alternatives to electronic smoking that are not concerned by the ban.

BAT ran his own team after buying Tyrrell in 1997 and officially entered 1999 as British American Racing. They took 15 places on the podium and Jenson Button was driving in their most successful season, while they were second in the 2004 Constructors' Championship. The team was sold to Honda in 2006.

McLaren announced the new multi-year partnership Monday, three days before the launch of the new car. The agreement focuses on technology and innovation, around what are known as BAT's "potentially reduced risk products".

"McLaren Applied Technologies will work with BAT on areas such as battery technology and advanced materials," said the team. "Both companies will share best practices, innovation know-how and a common experience."

The intent is to increase awareness of the company's e-cigarette and tobacco products. However, BAT pointed out that its "punctual" presence on the McLaren car this season would be "at all times in compliance with applicable regulations and legislation".

Ferrari's owner, Philip Morris International, owner of Marlboro, had used similar tactics last year by launching the "Mission Winnow" brand on the car and promoting its alternative products that are not covered by the ban. tobacco advertising.

Williams launched his new 2019 car on Monday, switching from navy blue and white clbadics to a white and light blue livery for Robert Kubica. He returns to F1 after a serious accident in 2011, and British rookie George Russell.

The team, which went through a difficult period last year, also unveiled a new main sponsor, the telecommunications company Rokit. His support is a major badet for Williams, whose partnership with Martini ended last year and finished last in the constructors' championship with just seven points.

Jonathan Kendrick, co-founder of Rokit, worked in F1 as a tire engineer for Goodyear with Alan Jones in his first season with Williams in 1978, before the Australian won the first title of the team in 1980.