While Sepang is no longer a part of the Formula 1 calendar, we Malaysians still have a pretty significant representation in the pinnacle of motorsports, thanks to the Petronas branding and partnership with the Mercedes-AMG F1 Team. This year, coincidentally, is Petronas’ 50th anniversary, so to celebrate the momentous milestone and a fruitful 14 years of partnership, the Silver Arrows have introduced a special one-off livery for this weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix – which, of course, is as close to a home race for Petronas these days…
Instead of the iconic silver and black look, the Mercedes-AMG W15 E Performance will prominently feature Petronas’ emerald green colour on its nose, engine cover, and side pods in the Singapore GP. You’ll also find special 50-year anniversary logos littered all around the car, notably on the nose and rear wing end plates.
Petronas has been indelibly linked with the team ever since Mercedes returned to the sport as a full works outfit in 2010. Acting as a Title and Technical Partner, the national energy company has powered the team to eight consecutive Constructors’ Championships and seven Drivers’ titles, all while using its fuels and lubricants. It’s no wonder the team is paying such a big tribute with the special livery, just a shame we can’t see it running around its home circuit in Sepang.
After the Singapore Grand Prix, which the team has a genuine chance of winning this week with its recent performance boost and Red Bull Racing’s ongoing struggles, drivers Lewis Hamilton, George Russell, and Team Principal Toto Wolff will also be heading up to our shores as part of their plans to celebrate Petronas’ 50th anniversary. For Hamilton fans, this could be your last chance to see the six-time world champion in Malaysia (in Petronas colours at least) before he swaps over to Ferrari!
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“Our partnership with Petronas is our longest standing and still going strong,” said Wolff in a press release. “We share a common belief and commitment to innovation and performance. That has enabled us to achieve such incredible success in recent years and Petronas has been right at the heart of that.
“We look forward to continuing our relationship for many more years to come, and with exciting challenges ahead such as the introduction of sustainable fuels in 2026. This livery is therefore not only a celebration of their 50th anniversary, but a reflection of Petronas’ importance in our team’s story and honours our journey together.”
Lewis Hamilton added, “Since I joined the team in 2013, Petronas have been there every step of the way. They’ve played such a crucial role in the success that we’ve enjoyed and have helped power me to six Drivers’ World Championships. It’s a privilege therefore to celebrate this milestone, and our journey together, at such an important race.”
George Russell said: “The design looks brilliant and is a fantastic tribute to such a milestone achievement. As Title and Technical Partner, Petronas are integral to everything we do on track. It is great to recognise the importance of our relationship at the race closest to their home.
“I am also looking forward to going to Malaysia next week to continue the celebrations. It is always great to visit the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur and meet the many people who have contributed to the success of the company over the past 50 years and will continue to do so into the next 50.”
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