~ Partnership announced at full throttle — no podium, no speech, no human needed
~ “Fast just got faster”: Sting Energy® enters the speed culture with Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team
~ Historic global partnership to officially begin in 2026
PepsiCo’s electrifying energy drink and Official Formula 1 Team Partner, Sting Energy, has announced a landmark global partnership with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team. Marking a first-of-its-kind moment in Formula 1 and brand collaborations, Sting Energy and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team revealed the partnership in an unconventional, high-adrenaline way.
Instead of a podium or a scripted launch, the announcement was made through a digital film featuring a precision-tuned lap—the roaring engine building into a dramatic crescendo that morphs into a single powerful word: “STINGGGGGG.”
A High-Voltage Fan Play from Sting
The announcement didn’t stop at the reveal; it also teased what fans can expect from Sting during Grand Prix weekends. With Sting joining the team, expect more energy, more speed, and a deeper fan–team connection throughout the season.
The instant the launch film went live, major content creators reacted across social media, expressing excitement for both the partnership and its creatively engineered car-only announcement.
Leadership Reactions
Eugene Willemsen, CEO, International Beverages, PepsiCo, said:
“This partnership unites performance, energy, and flavor under one banner as three iconic PepsiCo brands—Gatorade, Sting, and Doritos—join the world’s most successful Formula 1 team. From sports science to fan culture, our presence in F1 continues to grow. This collaboration demonstrates our shared commitment to innovation, excellence, and peak performance.”
Toto Wolff, Team Principal & CEO, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, stated:
“Welcoming a powerhouse like PepsiCo to our partner ecosystem reflects the growing strength of our team and our sport. Their commitment to innovation and excellence aligns perfectly with our identity. Gatorade’s sports science, Sting’s youthful energy, and Doritos’ cultural impact make this a truly unique partnership that will enhance team performance and elevate the fan experience worldwide.”
Richard Sanders, Chief Commercial Officer, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, added:
“We are delighted to welcome PepsiCo to the team. Their expertise will help us deliver an enhanced experience both on and off the track. This partnership will reshape how we operate daily and how we connect with fans globally.”