DUBAI: Emirates, the Formula One group have announced a five-year agreement appointing Emirates as a Global Partner of Formula 1 starting with the imminent 2013 season.

The announcement was made today by Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline ‘&’ Group and Bernie Ecclestone, Chief Executive Officer of the Formula One group.

Emirates will have a strong branding presence at 15 races on the 2013 FIA Formula One World Championship calendar across Europe, Asia, Australasia, North America and South America. Starting at the Grand Prix in Malaysia (22-24 March 2013), the distinctive Fly Emirates branding will be seen at historic circuits such as Silverstone in Great Britain, Monza in Italy and Interlagos in Sao Paolo, Brazil.

“This is an exciting global opportunity to align two world leading brands. The ambition, cutting-edge technological standards and worldwide reach of Formula One go hand in hand with Emirates’ vision and ambition,” said Sheikh Ahmed.

Bernie Ecclestone, Chief Executive Officer of the Formula One group commented: “Emirates has a first class international reputation and I’m very pleased to welcome such a prestigious company as a global partner of Formula One.”