McLaren and partner extend agreement

JOHNNIE WALKER AND VODAFONE McLAREN MERCEDES TAKE THE NEXT STEP

As the electrifying 2007 Formula 1 season draws to a close, Diageo, through their Johnnie Walker brand, and Vodafone McLaren Mercedes will continue to stride forward with an extension of their Partnership.

The agreement, which will now run through to the end of the 2012 season, will also see an increased level of branding and financial support of the team.

Today's announcement ensures the iconic 'Striding Man' will continue to have a strong presence in one of the world's most dynamic sports with one of its most successful teams.

Ben Anderson, Marketing Director, Johnnie Walker outlined that "Diageo and Vodafone McLaren Mercedes have agreed the terms of an extended sponsorship of the team by Johnnie Walker. The final agreement is expected to be concluded in the next few days. Over its first two years, the Partnership has been a powerful platform to drive brand equity and deliver Diageo's responsible drinking messages and the extended sponsorship clearly demonstrates Diageo's resulting confidence in the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team as Partners for the future."

Ron Dennis, Team Principal Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, added that, "It is always tremendously fulfilling when a Partner of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes extends its involvement with the team. Through their responsible drinking campaign, Johnnie Walker has activated a wide range of high profile and innovative programmes involving the team since our Partnership began in 2005, and we are looking forward to contributing further to the growth of the Johnnie Walker brand."

-credit: mclaren