Mercedes is called Petronas because Petronas is a long-standing and significant title sponsor of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team. This partnership began when Mercedes-Benz acquired the Brawn GP team.
The Origin of the Name
The inclusion of "Petronas" in the team's name stems from a pivotal moment in the team's history:
- Acquisition by Mercedes-Benz: Mercedes-Benz purchased a majority stake in the Brawn GP Formula One team, which had previously been Honda's factory team. This marked Mercedes' direct return to competing in the constructors' championship.
- Strategic Sponsorship Deal: Alongside this acquisition, a major sponsorship deal was secured with Petronas, the Malaysian oil and gas company. This agreement established Petronas as the team's title sponsor.
- Rebranding: Following these developments, the team was officially rebranded as the Mercedes GP Petronas Formula One Team. Over time, it evolved into its current full name, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, reflecting its high-performance division.
This partnership is more than just a name; Petronas provides crucial technical support, supplying the team with high-performance fuels, lubricants, and fluid technology that are vital for the cars' performance and reliability on the track.
Key Aspects of the Partnership
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Title Sponsorship | Petronas holds the prestigious title sponsorship, meaning their name is prominently featured in the team's official designation. |
| Technical Partner | Beyond financial support, Petronas is a core technical partner, developing and supplying essential fluids for the powertrain. |
| Long-Term Alliance | The collaboration has endured for many years, contributing to the team's successful era in Formula One. |
The integration of "Petronas" into the team's identity reflects a deep, mutually beneficial relationship that combines automotive engineering excellence with advanced fuel and lubricant technology.
