Formula 1 has reached a deal with American Express that will see AmEx becoming the racing competition’s official payments partner in the Americas.
The partnership will span across several years, covering the upcoming races in Austin, Mexico City, São Paulo, Las Vegas, Miami and Montreal.
Together with the Formula 1 main events, AmEx will also support the F1 Academy – the all-female racing series committed to strengthening female participation in motorsport.
Jonny Haworth, Director of Commercial Partnerships, Formula 1, said: “We are thrilled to welcome American Express as an Official Partner of Formula 1 in the Americas.
“As we continue to grow our presence in the US we believe American Express will introduce a new wave of fans to the sport through offering premium once-in-a lifetime moments to their Card Members, and support F1 in our efforts to further enhance and elevate the fan experience in this crucial market.
“It’s also fantastic to see a global brand like American Express supporting F1 Academy and the work the series is doing to drive lasting change in our sport.”
Formula 1 becomes the first new sports vertical in over a decade that AmEx is sponsoring, with the firm previously venturing into partnership deals across basketball, tennis, golf, music, theatre and more.
Elizabeth Rutledge, Chief Marketing Officer, American Express, added: “The F1 fan base and viewership has grown exponentially over the past several years, so we are thrilled to bring the exclusive access and unique experiences that American Express is known for to our Card Members and racing fans.
“The addition of F1 to our global portfolio of partnerships helps us continue to create meaningful value for our customers, in the areas they’re most passionate about.”
Becoming an F1 sponsor will allow American Express to offer its card members in the Americas a variety of benefits, including early access to F1 Experiences ticket packages available at all races, as well as regional Paddock Club and Grandstand tickets.
Furthermore, with the start of the US Grand Prix in Austin this month, all eligible card members will receive access to complimentary Amex Race Radios that will feature exclusive commentary from around the track.
More benefits will be unlocked later as the inaugural F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix 2023 sets off in November.
Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer, Las Vegas Grand Prix Inc, added: “As we prepare for our inaugural Vegas race, it’s crucial that we partner with brands that enhance the overall guest experience and exceed their expectations.
“American Express continues to bring new and exciting opportunities for sports fans around the world, and we look forward to working together to create once-in-a-lifetime experiences for their Card Members.”
