McLaren has announced that it has signed a deal with NTT Data to become “official partner” of its F1 Academy Team.

Each grand prix outfit runs a driver in the all-female series with liveries reminiscent of the F1 machines, with McLaren running Bianca Bustamante as its entry.

Ahead of round four of seven in the 2024 season at the Dutch Grand Prix, McLaren has announced that NTT Data – the title sponsor of IndyCar – is to join with the team to become a partner.

Bustamante is fifth in the standings after one podium in Miami, 90 points behind runaway leader Abbie Pulling of Alpine.

“We are delighted to further develop our partnership with NTT Data into the world of F1 Academy – a relationship which has gone from strength to strength with our Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team,” said Matt Dennington, co-chief commercial officer of McLaren.

“We’re proud to work closely with our partners to continue to open up motorsport to female drivers, and we are pleased to have NTT DATA join us on this journey.”