News summary

Lightning McQueen arrived at the Monza paddock on Thursday (3) for a special appearance at the Italian GP, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the release of the first “Cars” movie. The Disney and Pixar character was brought to the Italian circuit as part of the festivities and received a track-ready version specially created for the occasion.

The activation also marks the extension of the multi-year partnership between Formula 1 and Disney. The “Fuel the Magic” campaign, launched in 2025, has now been extended through the end of the 2028 season. Last year, Mickey Mouse and other Disney characters were featured during the official presentation of the Las Vegas GP.

According to F1, Lightning McQueen will take a parade lap around the Monza circuit before the start of Sunday’s race. The character, the protagonist of the “Cars” franchise, is presented as a seven-time Piston Cup champion.

The official Safety Car will also receive a special makeover during the Italian GP weekend. The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO used as the FIA’s Safety Car will run with a livery inspired by the “Cars” franchise.

The promotional program also includes activities for fans attending the Italian GP. A special merchandise collection will be available, featuring Mattel die-cast models inspired by “Cars” characters and Formula 1, as well as clothing, collectibles and accessories.

Lightning McQueen will be present throughout the Italian GP weekend (Photo: F1)

For Emily Prazer, Formula 1’s Chief Commercial Officer, the continuation of the partnership represents an opportunity to bring the worlds of F1 and Disney closer together.

“The success of our partnership with Disney has demonstrated what is possible when two globally loved brands come together around a shared vision of creativity, storytelling and fan engagement. The extension of our partnership reflects the strength of this collaboration and our ambition to continue creating new experiences for fans around the world,” Prazer said.

“This merchandise collection is the next natural step and brings together the excitement of Formula 1 with the world of Disney and Pixar’s ‘Cars’ in a way that feels authentic and nostalgic,” she added.

The partnership between F1 and Disney has already produced several activations since its launch. The collaboration was initially introduced in 2025 and has since expanded to include different Disney properties and fan experiences around the Formula 1 calendar.

With the arrival of “Cars”, the partnership gains a franchise directly connected to the world of motorsport. Lightning McQueen is one of the best-known characters in Disney and Pixar’s racing universe and has become one of the franchise’s most recognizable figures since the original movie was released in 2006.

The new collection combines Formula 1 branding with characters and visual elements from “Cars”. The merchandise includes Mattel die-cast cars, apparel, accessories and collectibles, with products available through official F1 and Disney channels and at selected Grand Prix venues.

The Italian GP takes place this weekend, from September 4 to 6, at Monza. GRANDE PRÊMIO will cover all the action from the 13th round of the 2026 F1 season.

FAQ

1. Why is Lightning McQueen at the Italian GP?
Lightning McQueen is appearing at Monza as part of celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of Disney and Pixar’s “Cars” and the expansion of Formula 1’s “Fuel the Magic” partnership with Disney.

2. Will Lightning McQueen be the F1 Safety Car at Monza?
No. McQueen will make a separate appearance and take a parade lap before the race. The official FIA Safety Car remains the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO, which will feature a special “Cars”-inspired livery.

3. How long will the Formula 1 and Disney partnership last?
The “Fuel the Magic” partnership has been extended through the end of the 2028 F1 season.