source Autosport
By Pablo Elizalde Monday, September 14th 2009, 12:44 GMT
The McLaren team has confirmed the extension of its sponsorship deal with Spanish banking giant Santander, as revealed by AUTOSPORT over the weekend.
Santander has sponsored McLaren since the 2007 season, and the partnership will continue despite the company having signed a five-year deal with Ferrari from next year.
"We are extremely pleased to have extended our hugely successful global Partnership with Santander," said team boss Martin Whitmarsh.
"As one of the world's leading banks with a significant presence in Europe, Brazil, Mexico, Chile and the United States and other countries, Santander is a great 'fit' with Vodafone McLaren Mercedes and our triumphs on the global stage of Formula 1.
"The year 2009 marks Santander's third season of association with our sport, and during this time they have successfully title-sponsored three of the most prestigious and historic races: the British, German and Italian Grands Prix. We are very proud of our relationship with Santander and to be part of their ever-expanding Formula 1 involvement.
"We welcome, and wish them well with, their other activities - including, but not limited to, the afore-mentioned race sponsorships."
According to the team, Santander has seen its brand awareness rise in the UK from 20% to 82% since the partnership began.
"The year 2010 will create a newly-refreshed scenario for Santander in terms of Formula 1 sponsorship," said Juan Manuel Cendoya, Senior Vice President of Communications, Corporate Marketing and Research.
"Our continuing partnership with Vodafone McLaren Mercedes - and especially with Lewis Hamilton - will fit very well with our ongoing development of the Santander brand, not only in the UK but globally too."
