As Charles Leclerc secured victory at the season opener this weekend, with Ferrari putting a strong marker down and sealing the 1-2, Rolex celebrated ten years as Global Partner and as the Official Timepiece of Formula 1.
In doing so, the Swiss watchmaker says it supports the pinnacle of motor sport through every transformation and celebrates its desire for advanced engineering, timeless appeal and world-class competition.
Reflecting on Rolex’s enduring relationship with motor racing, three-time FIA Formula 1 Drivers’ World Champion and long-standing Rolex Testimonee, Sir Jackie Stewart, commented: “This year marks 10 seasons of Rolex’s partnership with Formula 1, and since the beginning both have embodied ground-breaking technology, precision and ingenuity at every level, while having a mutual appreciation for magnificent craftsmanship, style and, ultimately, the importance of timing.”
Adding: “Nurturing long-term relationships is fundamental to Rolex, whether through associations with events or sporting legends.”
Pre-season testing, which concluded two days ago in Bahrain, highlighted how Formula 1 continues to push the boundaries. The new regulations have resulted in significant changes to the design of the machines.
A return to ground-effect aerodynamics, low-profile tyres and wheel covers aims to promote closer racing between the 20 drivers.
In addition to creating a tighter field, the rules embrace the target to achieve 100 per cent sustainable fuels by the middle of the decade and the comprehensive cost cap means the 10 teams are operating under different circumstances.
Looking ahead to the forthcoming season, multiple Formula 1 race winner and Rolex Testimonee, Mark Webber, added: “It’s set to be a hugely exciting year with complex changes to the appearance and drivability of the cars. Pre-season testing has provided us with some insights into how the teams are looking but until they race in earnest this weekend, performance and reliability is all to play for – I think a lot of the teams are very nervous.
“Plus, with the opening races offering very different challenges in terms of circuit design, it might take some time for us to see who has the advantage as it’s an incredibly dynamic situation with quick rates of development – it’s going to be tremendous for the fans. This year also marks 10 seasons of Rolex and Formula 1, which is a wonderful milestone that showcases loyalty and is something that both parties can be very proud of.”
In 2022, the Rolex Pit Lane Clock will accompany Formula 1 at races across five continents and the series will debut a condensed three-day format at each leg.
Long-established races in Australia, Canada, Singapore and Japan return to the schedule, while joining the calendar in May is the inaugural race in Miami, Florida, featuring a 19-turn, 5.41 kilometre street circuit.
The championship will once again conclude in Abu Dhabi in November.
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