The McLaren F1 team has revealed a unique livery inspired by traditional Japanese calligraphy for the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka. This special design will adorn both the MCL38 F1 cars, piloted by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
Key Takeaways:
- McLaren introduces a unique livery for the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, featuring a dragon design by artist MILTZ.
- The livery adorns both their MCL38 F1 cars driven by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, incorporating elements of traditional Japanese calligraphy.
- Part of McLaren’s Driven by Change campaign in partnership with British American Tobacco’s Vuse brand, the livery alteration aims to spotlight talented artists’ creativity, with MILTZ expressing excitement for the opportunity and McLaren’s Chief Marketing Officer, Louise McEwen, highlighting the campaign’s success.
Crafted by Japanese artist MILTZ, the eye-catching design showcases a dragon soaring through the clouds, incorporating elements reminiscent of Japanese calligraphy from the Edo period. Featuring prominent blue and white hues on the engine cover, sidepods, and front wing alongside the usual orange and black accents, the livery transforms the appearance of the car.
As part of the Driven by Change campaign which returns for a fourth season, McLaren’s livery alteration showcases its partnership with British American Tobacco, prominently featuring the Vuse brand of e-cigarettes on its cars.
Speaking about his work that tells stories through art, Designer MILTZ said:
“When I first became a freelance artist, I never thought an opportunity like this was possible – this is the biggest international project I have ever done.
“As I continue to build my profile as an artist, I want my artwork to champion the rich traditions of Japanese writing culture, such as Edomoji, but with a modern twist. From my work with local businesses in Japan to the McLaren Formula 1 team, there are so many beautiful stories to tell through art.”
Highlighting the success of the Driven by Change campaign, McLaren Racing’s chief marketing officer Louise McEwen added:
“We are really excited to bring Driven by Change to Japan for the 2024 iteration of the campaign alongside our partner Vuse.
“Now in its fourth year, we have seen the successes of the campaign in showcasing the incredible creativity of these talented and undiscovered artists for the world to see on our race cars.”
As McLaren prepares for the Japanese GP weekend, it solidifies its position as the third-ranked team behind Red Bull and Ferrari, based on its performance across the initial three Grands Prix of 2024. With Suzuka being the backdrop of the team’s double podium last year, securing second and third-place finishes, expectations are high for another strong showing.