McLaren Brings Back the Classic Gulf Oil Livery to Formula 1

We will see more of the gorgeous aqua-on-orange color scheme of Gulf Oil International.

The Gulf Oil brand became famous after appearing on the Ford GT40 and Porsche 917 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Steve McQueen film Le Mans.

This getup is among racing’s most recognizable liveries. The combination of aquamarine and orange is pleasing and it is also recognizable because McLaren’s Can-Am and Formula 1 cars had over 40 wins with Gulf Oil. Last Tuesday McLaren and Gulf Oil International signed a multi-year business partnership.

Now the Gulf logo and colors will appear on both McLaren’s racing and road cars. McLaren’s F1 team reinstated Gulf Oil’s presence in time for the British Grand Prix. The Gulf Oil logos were displayed on the engine cover and mirrors of the MCL35 F1 car. It was also on the uniforms of the drivers and the pit crew.

“McLaren Automotive is delighted to announce a new multi-year partnership with Gulf Oil International, bringing together some of the best engineering minds for great future innovation. #GulfXMcLaren,” McLaren tweeted.

Gulf Oil’s presence will also be on the Kiwi-rooted firm’s road cars starting next year, when McLaren starts filling the supercars with Gulf Oil International-supplied gasoline and oils from the factory.

“It’s official! We’re so excited to return to racing with @McLarenF1 and develop our road products with @McLarenAuto. Tune in to find out more on what we’re going to be doing together with our improved technology,“ Gulf Oil International tweeted.