MSC Cruises has extended its global partnership deal with Formula 1.

The agreement will see MSC Cruises continue as the official cruise partner of Formula 1 until the end of the 2026 world championship.

The cruise line will now take ships to select Grand Prix weekends to offer a “unique hospitality experience from track to ship”, a statement said.

The first of these will launch with MSC Virtuosa in Abu Dhabi for the final round of the 2023 season, offering all-access accommodation, hospitality and transportation packages for fans and VIPs.

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

More ships will be present at races in the 2024 season and beyond.

The line has also been confirmed as the title sponsor of this year’s Belgian Grand Prix. Further title sponsorships will be revealed for races during the 2024 season.

MSC Cruises & F1 ‘making a difference’

MSC Cruises executive chairman Pierfrancesco Vago said: “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.”

Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali added: “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.”

Image credit: Studio Columbo