Marco Rossi · F1 Correspondent
The Japanese technology group, title sponsor of the IndyCar series since 2019, is moving closer to McLaren’s Formula 1 team, with artificial intelligence at the heart of the deal.
McLaren has a new partner in Formula 1: Japanese technology group NTT will become an Official Partner of the McLaren Mastercard F1 Team from the 2027 season. The two sides announced a multi-year partnership on Wednesday. They did not disclose financial details or the exact length of the deal.
A familiar partner steps up
The link is not entirely new. NTT Communications, now NTT DOCOMO BUSINESS, has already worked with McLaren’s Formula 1 team, and subsidiary NTT DATA with Arrow McLaren in IndyCar. In the United States the name is already prominent: NTT has been title sponsor of the NTT IndyCar Series since 2019.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown pointed to an established relationship: “We have a long-standing relationship with NTT and are excited to welcome them as an Official Partner.” NTT President Akira Shimada referred to his group’s existing commitment to motorsport, which began with the IndyCar title sponsorship in 2019.
Artificial intelligence at the core
In terms of content, artificial intelligence is at the center. According to the announcement, NTT will support McLaren in its quest to become the most AI-fluent team on the grid, with AI security governance at its core. Specifically, this concerns the rules and processes used to control the risks of using AI.
There will also be a global engagement program designed to bring clients and fans closer to the partnership and to Formula 1. The announcement leaves open what that will look like in detail and whether the NTT name will appear on the car.
On track, third place is still at stake in 2026
Before the partnership kicks in, McLaren still has unfinished business this season. After the Mexico City Grand Prix the team is fourth in the constructors’ championship with 365 points, 17 behind Red Bull.
Four races remain to close that gap: São Paulo, Las Vegas, Qatar and Abu Dhabi. The collaboration with NTT then begins with the 2027 season.
Team Ranking
Formula 1- 1. Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 652 pts.
- 2. Scuderia Ferrari HP 512 pts.
- 3. Oracle Red Bull Racing 415 pts.
- 4. McLaren Mastercard F1 Team 398 pts.
- 5. Visa Cash App Racing Bulls F1 Team 112 pts.
