By Simon Strang Wednesday, March 12th 2008, 10:53 GMT
Camera manufacturer Olympus has agreed a deal with McLaren-Mercedes to become the team's official supplier of photographic services.
The Japanese company, a Ferrari sponsor until the end of 2007, has a long history of backing Formula One teams having previously supported Team Lotus, Walter Wolf Racing in the 1970s and McLaren in the '80s.
As part of its agreement with McLaren, Olympus will place British photographer Jon Nicholson in the team to create a season-long record of the their progress behind the scenes in 2008.
McLaren team principal Ron Dennis commented: "We are delighted to welcome a renowned brand such as Olympus to our partner portfolio and look forward to a long and successful co-operation.
"It's always a tremendous boost for Vodafone McLaren Mercedes when we announce a new partner and to be able to do so only a few days before the start of the new season in Australia makes it even more significant."
