Ferrari has unveiled a tweaked livery ahead of this weekend’s Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix as part of a new initiative from long-term partner Philip Morris International.
Philip Morris has sponsored Ferrari for several decades but its branding has not featured on the cars for a decade, amid the demise of legal tobacco sponsorship.
On Thursday morning at Suzuka Philip Morris announced its ‘Mission Winnow’ initiative, with its “ambitious vision of a smoke-free future” amid the “paradigm shift” in the industry.
The tweak has resulted in the ‘Mission Winnow’ logo taking prominence on several parts of the SF71H's livery, including the engine cover and rear wing, with the drivers’ race suits also changed accordingly.
The updated livery will be seen on track for the first time during Friday’s opening practice session at Suzuka.
“Through Mission Winnow we want to let the world know how we have changed, to share our pride in the transformation that the people of PMI have achieved, as well as our dedication to rigorous science and innovation that can lead to a better future,” said Andre Calantzopoulous, Chief Executive Officer of PMI.
“We will use this global platform as a window into the new PMI and to challenge preconceptions, as we know there are many who may have doubts about us and our motivations.
“Our partnership with Scuderia Ferrari gives us the opportunity to build on many encouraging individual conversations with critics and supports alike and reach out to a board audience to engage at scale.”
Ferrari has partnered Philip Morris International for 45 years.
