McLaren Racing confirmed that NTT will join the team as an Official Partner for the 2027 Formula 1 season and beyond. The arrangement expands a relationship that already spans several years and multiple motorsport platforms. Under the new contract, NTT’s global technology capabilities will be woven into McLaren’s on-track and off-track operations, with a particular emphasis on making the squad the most AI-fluent outfit in the sport.
Both parties highlighted that the collaboration is built around a shared ambition to harness artificial intelligence responsibly. NTT will help construct a governance framework designed to identify and mitigate security risks that arise from AI deployment. This initiative is intended to safeguard data, preserve competitive integrity, and ensure compliance with emerging regulations as AI tools become more pervasive across the paddock.
AI fluency and security governance at the core of the deal
The partnership places AI security governance at its centre. NTT will supply expertise to develop policies, monitoring tools, and risk-assessment processes that align with McLaren’s performance targets while protecting the team’s digital assets. By embedding these safeguards early, McLaren aims to avoid the pitfalls that can accompany rapid AI adoption, such as algorithmic bias or cyber-intrusion.
Beyond risk management, the collaboration envisions practical AI applications: predictive analytics for car setup, real-time data processing during races, and machine-learning models that support strategic decisions. NTT’s role will be advisory as well as operational, ensuring that every AI-driven insight adheres to the newly-established security standards.
Historical ties that pave the way for deeper integration
The new agreement builds on a decade-long partnership between the two organisations. In 2016, NTT Communications (now NTT Docomo Business) first supplied technology support to McLaren-Honda, marking the initial foray into Formula 1 collaboration. Subsequently, NTT Data partnered with the Arrow McLaren IndyCar team in 2023, an alliance that coincided with IndyCar champion Alex Palou joining McLaren as a reserve driver.
NTT has also acted as the title sponsor of the IndyCar Series since 2019, reinforcing its commitment to motorsport. Although the Arrow McLaren IndyCar sponsorship concluded this year, the experience gained there will feed directly into the expanded F1 partnership. Both companies see the alliance as a platform to showcase cutting-edge technology to a global audience, while also providing NTT’s corporate clients exclusive access to the world of high-performance racing.
What the partnership means for fans and the wider business community
As part of the deal, NTT will launch a global engagement programme that brings together clients, enthusiasts, and the broader fan base. Activities may include behind-the-scenes digital experiences, joint hospitality events, and educational content that demystifies the role of AI in motorsport. While the financial terms remain undisclosed, the partnership is expected to generate mutual brand amplification and open new commercial avenues for both McLaren and NTT.
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, summed up the vision: “AI has enormous potential across our sport and our business, and NTT’s expertise will support us in adopting new technologies in a responsible and secure way.” Akira Shimada, President and CEO of NTT, echoed the sentiment, noting that the collaboration aligns two organisations that continually push the limits of what is possible on a global stage.
