MSC CRUISES ANNOUNCES EXTENSION TO FORMULA 1® GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP DEAL

Geneva, Switzerland – 05 May 2023 – MSC Cruises announced today that the world’s fastest-growing cruise line has extended its global partnership deal with Formula 1®. The announcement took place in Miami on the eve of the Formula 1® Grand Prix and will see MSC Cruises continue as Official Cruise Partner of Formula 1® through to the end of the 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship.

The continuing growth of interest in Formula 1® around the world, which has been particularly strong in key markets for MSC Cruises, has seen the existing global partnership agreement achieve strong results for the brand and its product portfolio. Encouraged by the success of bringing these two premium brands together, MSC Cruises will seek to further activate the partnership through an expanded programme.

As part of the agreement, MSC Cruises will bring ships during select Grand Prix weekends to offer a unique hospitality experience from track to ship. The first of these will launch when MSC Virtuosa will be present in Abu Dhabi for the final round of the 2023 Formula 1® season, offering unique all-access accommodation, hospitality and transportation packages for fans and VIPs. This initial product offering will grow under the extension of the partnership with more ships and races to come during the 2024 season and beyond.

MSC Cruises was also confirmed as the title sponsor of the 2023 Formula 1® Belgian Grand Prix and the brand will have an engaging activation for racegoers within the fan zone. Further title sponsorships will be revealed at selected Formula 1® Grands PrixTM during the 2024 World championship season.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman MSC Cruises commented, “Formula 1 and MSC Cruises are great partners on many levels and our successes are founded in teamwork.  Not only this, but we are both driving towards sustainable change. We want to build the future of our industries and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. We are both working at the forefront of our industries and helping to make a real difference. And this is why we are committed to Formula 1 for the long term and have extended our sponsorship as Global Partner. We look forward to this special partnership going from strength to strength.”

Stefano Domenicali, President & CEO of Formula 1, said, ““We're excited to extend our partnership with MSC Cruises, as both our brands share a commitment to innovation and excellence. This collaboration has brought exceptional results, and we look forward to enhancing our relationship further. Together, we'll continue pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks in sports and hospitality.”

About the MSC Cruises and Formula 1® Grand Prix™ Hospitality Experience

Formula 1® fans can now book a fully integrated hospitality experience on board MSC Virtuosa at the 2023 Formula 1® Etihad Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Serving as a cruise ship hotel throughout the race weekend whilst docked in the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, MSC Virtuosa offers comfortable and stylish accommodation combined with an incredible array of amenities. A range of different packages are available, combining accommodation, race tickets and exclusive insider access with F1® Experiences to make the race weekend truly unforgettable. For more information visit here.

Packages start with a cabin only option for those who already have race tickets or a cabin + Formula 1® Grandstand ticket option. Other options include cabin + F1® Experience that include exclusive trackside activities, through to premium all-inclusive hospitality (Turn 1 Suite, Paddock Club and Legend), including exclusive insider access such as Pit Lane Walk, Guided Track Tour on a flatbed truck, Formula 1® personnel appearances, and more.

A choice of accommodation levels available all with half board (breakfast and an evening meal), complimentary Wi-Fi and transfers to and from the track.

The Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal where MSC Virtuosa will be docked is just a short drive from the circuit, allowing guests to get there and back with ease thanks to complimentary transfers.

MSC Virtuosa will be in port from 23 to 27 November, allowing guests the opportunity to extend their race weekend.