F1 Extends Disney Deal Through 2028, Bringing Lightning McQueen to Monza

Formula 1 and Disney have officially extended their "Fuel the Magic" partnership through the 2028 season, bringing Disney and Pixar's Cars franchise to the prestigious Formula 1 Monza race. The announcement was made at the D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. The collaboration, which began in 2025, aims to blend Disney storytelling with Formula 1's global fanbase.

This extension adds a full new season to the original deal, and the most significant news for fans is the introduction of the Cars franchise into Formula 1 for the first time. Lightning McQueen will make his debut at the Ferrari Pirelli Gran Premio d'Italia in Monza this September, arriving in an all-new look. Joss Hastings, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Disney Consumer Products, expressed excitement about the Cars' inclusion, stating it presents an opportunity to "Fuel the Magic" and unite two fan communities that share a love for speed, spectacle, and heart.

The partnership has already made a significant impact, with events in Las Vegas, China, Canada, and Great Britain, including unique merchandise and experiences. Fans attending the D23 convention experienced the Cars expansion firsthand, with exclusive merchandise and a "Disney x Formula 1 Fuel the Magic Photo Experience."