(TAN): MSC Cruises said it has extended its global partnership deal with Formula 1 and that it will continue as the Official Cruise Partner of Formula 1 through to the end of the 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship.
The announcement was made in Miami on the eve of the Formula 1 Grand Prix.
The continuing growth of interest in Formula 1 around the world, which has been particularly strong in key markets for MSC Cruises, has seen the existing global partnership agreement achieve strong results for the brand and its product portfolio. Encouraged by the success of bringing these two premium brands together, MSC Cruises will seek to further activate the partnership through an expanded programme.
As part of the agreement, MSC Cruises will bring ships during select Grand Prix weekends to offer a unique hospitality experience from track to ship. The first of these will launch when MSC Virtuosa will be present in Abu Dhabi for the final round of the 2023 Formula 1 season, offering unique all-access accommodation, hospitality and transportation packages for fans and VIPs. This initial product offering will grow under the extension of the partnership with more ships and races to come during the 2024 season and beyond.
MSC Cruises was also confirmed as the title sponsor of the 2023 Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix and the brand will have an engaging activation for racegoers within the fan zone. Further title sponsorships will be revealed at selected Formula 1® Grands PrixTM during the 2024 World championship season.
Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Cruises, said, “Formula 1 and MSC Cruises are great partners on many levels and our successes are founded in teamwork. Not only this, but we are both driving towards sustainable change. We want to build the future of our industries and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.”
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Stefano Domenicali, president & CEO of Formula 1, said, “We’re excited to extend our partnership with MSC Cruises, as both our brands share a commitment to innovation and excellence. This collaboration has brought exceptional results, and we look forward to enhancing our relationship further.”
