McLaren get flip-flop sponsored halo

In what is surely the best bit of Formula 1 branding since Williams' drivers were given Sonic the Hedgehog's legs, McLaren's halo on the 2018 car will be sponsored by a company that makes flip-flops. Since it was confirmed the halo would feature on cars this year, countless memes and criticisms alike have likened the device to sandals.

McLaren have signed a deal with Gandys for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, with the company's name to feature across the halo above Fernando Alonso and Stoffel Vandoorne.

Special McLaren-branded flip-flops are also to be produced by Gandys, who use their profits to help orphan charities, with all proceeds of sales of the limited-edition footwear going to Gandys' Orphans For Orphans foundation.

John Allert, McLaren Chief Marketing Officer, said: "The placement of the logo, on the MCL33's halo, was not only perfect from a branding perspective, but also a great opportunity to underline Gandys' charitable commitment to providing a safer, more protective environment for those at risk.

"Collaborating with Gandys on a limited-edition co-branded product was also a meaningful step for us. By giving 100 per cent of all profits to the Orphans For Orphans charity, McLaren is also able to help a very deserving good cause.

"Showcasing this partnership in Australia, where we race just a stone's throw from Melbourne's beautiful St Kilda beach, just felt like the best possible opportunity for Gandys to showcase its brand and noble cause on the international stage."

Gandys co-founder Rob Forkan added: "We were absolutely thrilled when McLaren came to us with this idea.
"When the brand was created, Paul was living in Melbourne, and I went out to surprise him on his birthday to tell him about the idea for Gandys. After managing to persuade him to return to the UK and start the brand, it's really exciting to be going back. In fact, it will be the first time we've return to Melbourne, so it's great to feel we have come full circle!

Hello, halo. When #F1 inspiration strikes for a great cause. McLaren goes feet first in our flip-flop collaboration with @GandysLondon: https://t.co/dX4uUIlIvp #HaloEdition pic.twitter.com/4MMMHTiidS — McLaren (@McLarenF1) March 16, 2018

"By putting Gandys' branding on the car's Halo, we can help to strengthen the message behind our Orphans For Orphans initiative; creating a protective and inspiring environment for children at risk. It is a step in the right direction for the safety of the drivers and a great step for Gandys.

"On a personal note, as huge fans of Formula 1 and McLaren, this was an opportunity that was simply too good to pass up. We can't wait to see Fernando, Stoffel and the whole team in action in Melbourne next weekend."