Intel returns to Formula 1, partnering with McLaren Racing. Photo: Intel Intel and McLaren Racing have announced a new long-term strategic partnership, which will see Intel become the official computing partner for McLaren's teams in Formula 1, IndyCar, and the team’s official race simulator.
Through this collaboration, Intel will provide McLaren with advanced computing infrastructure, artificial intelligence solutions, and high-performance processors to enable real-time data analysis and manage complex workloads in the high-speed world of motorsports.
The partnership brings together two organizations working in environments where speed, precision, and split-second decision-making are vital for success. Intel brings expertise in high-performance computing and AI, while McLaren is recognized as one of the leading teams in global motorsport.
Founded in 1963, McLaren holds 23 Formula 1 world championships and over 200 Grand Prix wins. The team now competes across several series, including Formula 1, IndyCar, and F1 Sim Racing.
According to the agreement, Intel Xeon and Intel Core Ultra processors will be used by McLaren to run complex simulations, aerodynamic analysis, vehicle dynamics, race strategy simulation, and real-time decision-making systems. Intel’s technologies will also connect McLaren’s development center in England with race teams operating at tracks around the world.
Intel notes that modern racing is increasingly driven by fast data processing, from real-time telemetry to advanced simulations before cars even hit the track. The company will deliver low-latency edge computing solutions and advanced AI platforms as part of this initiative.
Solutions provided in the collaboration include:
- Edge computing at racetracks for real-time data analysis
- Computing systems for simulations, aerodynamics, and digital twins
- AI platforms to accelerate design and performance prediction processes
The companies also announced plans to jointly develop new technologies focused on performance, efficiency, and sustainability in motorsports.
As part of the agreement, the Intel logo will appear on McLaren’s Formula 1 cars starting at the Montreal Grand Prix next week. The branding will also be featured on Arrow McLaren’s IndyCar vehicles and McLaren’s simulator team cars.
Lip-Bu Tan, CEO, Intel: "Formula 1 racing and IndyCar are some of the ultimate proving grounds for high-performance computing. Intel is proud to be McLaren Racing’s compute partner, and to be part of a team that thrives on precision, speed, and innovation. Together, Intel and McLaren will push the boundaries of what’s possible, transforming data into competitive advantage at every turn."
Zak Brown, CEO, McLaren Racing: "Performance in IndyCar and Formula 1 racing is driven by technology, and partnering with Intel strengthens our ability to innovate at scale. Intel has already been an important part of our technology ecosystem, and their leadership in computing will play a critical role in how we design, build, and race our cars. We’re excited to deepen this relationship even further."