Pixar’s iconic red animated car Lightning McQueen will make its way into the Formula 1 paddock after F1 extended its Fuel the Magic partnership with Disney through 2028.
Lightning McQueen to make special F1 appearance at Monza
After initially revolving largely around Mickey Mouse and his iconic cast of characters, the Formula 1 and Disney collaboration is expanding into the world of Pixar's Cars. Lightning McQueen will be part of the 2026 Italian Grand Prix weekend at Monza, where the famous character will appear with a special design marking the franchise's 20th anniversary.
The expansion will also bring a new range of merchandise. The first six products will be unveiled at D23 on August 14, including an exclusive hat and fleece alongside Mattel die-cast models. The collection will become available online through the official Formula 1 and Disney stores on the same day before receiving a wider global release on August 27. Fans at Monza will also be able to purchase items from the range at the F1 Flagship Store during the Italian Grand Prix.
Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer at Formula 1, highlighted the success of the partnership with Disney as one of the main reasons behind its extension, pointing to the opportunities created by combining two globally recognised brands through creativity, storytelling and fan engagement.
“The success of our partnership with Disney has demonstrated what’s possible when two globally loved brands come together around a shared vision for creativity, storytelling and fan engagement. Extending our relationship reflects the strength of that collaboration, and our ambition to continue creating new experiences for fans around the world.
“This merchandise collection is a natural next step and brings together the excitement of Formula 1 with Disney and Pixar’s Cars in a way that feels both authentic and nostalgic. For many fans, Cars was an early introduction to the thrill of racing, making this collaboration a fun way to celebrate the enduring appeal of the sport through characters that generations have come to know and love.”
Joss Hastings, Senior Vice President Marketing at Disney Consumer Products, explained that the partnership with Formula 1 is designed to bring Disney into the sport in creative and unexpected ways, reaching fans whether they are following from home, attending races or interacting through social media.
“Our mission with the F1 partnership is to bring Disney magic to fans in unexpected and creative ways, whether they’re watching at home, trackside or engaging on social.
“Building on the momentum established with Mickey & Friends, expanding our relationship to include Pixar’s Cars at Monza GP presents an exciting opportunity to ‘Fuel the Magic’ and bring together two fandom communities that share the same love of speed, spectacle, and heart. The future of this collaboration belongs to those fans, and our goal is to continue building moments that celebrate their passion.”