SportPesa partners with Racing Point for a 2019 F1 debut

The Racing point cars have retained their pink colour but now bear a blue SportPesa branding  [Courtesy]

The East African giant betting platform SportPesa became the first online betting operator to partner with a Formula One racing team.

Nearly two months ago, British owned Racing Point formerly known as Sahara Force India, professed that they would participate in the 2019 Formula One season with a sportPesa brand on their racing cars as their title sponsor.

Speaking after the agreement, SportPesa company Director Adam Beighton reiterated on the importance of the deal.

  “Equally important is the platform it provides us, which enables us to stay true to our mission; to build and develop grassroots and professional sport in countries where we operate by bringing new opportunities to local communities,” Beighton said.

On his side, Racing point CEO and team principal Otmar Szafnauer welcomed the deal and praised the betting giant for supporting sport.

“We are excited to have such an ambitious partner on board to help us deliver our team mission and look forward to working with them to bring the sport of Formula One closer to fans around the world,” Said Szafnauer.

Nearly 60 days later, the two companies have taken to the circuit as one.

Photo [Courtesy]

Racing Point and SportPesa participated in Friday’s practice sessions in Melbourne where one of their drivers, Sergio Perez ended both practice sessions in 16th place.

The deal is one of several that have been reached by different companies for the 2019 Formula One season which makes a higher percentage of racing companies set to enter the 2019 season with new title sponsors.