Airwallex, the McLaren Formula 1 Team, and Reko Rennie celebrate 2025 Melbourne GP with unique partnership
Leading Australian-founded global financial platform, Airwallex, is set to launch its ‘Shifted Perspectives’ campaign for the 2025 Formula 1 season with the McLaren Formula 1 Team and acclaimed First Nations artist, Reko Rennie.
Ahead of the F1 Australian Grand Prix kick-off on 13 March, 2025, Airwallex will unveil an Australian-first collaboration, bringing together technology, art, and sporting prowess to showcase the value of ‘shifting perspectives’.
A Creative Take on Innovation Across Sports and Business
As an Official Partner of the McLaren Formula 1 Team, Airwallex is elevating this partnership through a creative collaboration with Reko Rennie, an internationally renowned Kamilaroi artist. Rennie’s bold, thought-provoking work explores Indigenous identity and modern urban culture, and his vision for this project embodies the concept of ‘shifting perspectives’.
Rennie’s bespoke design will transform the McLaren Artura Coupe – a high-performance hybrid supercar – into a striking sculptural installation, blending art, and performance, as well as Airwallex and McLaren’s spirit of innovation.
The McLaren Artura featuring Rennie’s design will be on public display at Queensbridge Square from 13-16 March, offering fans the chance to witness the one-of-a-kind design in person.
“At Airwallex, we believe in pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo — whether in business, sport, or art. This collaboration with McLaren Racing and Reko Rennie is a testament to that mindset,” said Jon Stona, VP, Global Marketing, Airwallex. “With Oscar Piastri leading the charge for Australia on the F1 circuit, we want to inspire Australian businesses to think differently, shift their perspectives, and seize opportunities on a global stage.”
Reko Rennie added, “This is an amazing opportunity to combine two of my passions. I’ve always had a deep appreciation for cars and the innovation behind them. Merging my art, which is deeply rooted in my culture, with the global stage is a true fusion of worlds and my various influences. I’m excited to unveil the design and a film showcasing my inspiration during the F1 – a time when my home city of Melbourne truly comes to life.”
Investing in Business Innovation
To drive innovation and borderless business growth, Airwallex will also launch a business grant initiative to support Australian founders and professionals who embody the spirit of ambition and bold thinking. AUD$25,000 in funding is focused on three categories – Business Acceleration Grant, First Nations Business Grant, and Professional Acceleration Grant – to help local businesses capitalise on new opportunities and scale with confidence. Applications are open until 12 March, 2025. Winners will be announced during an exclusive Airwallex event on 12 March.
The Formula 1 Effect
The F1 Australian Grand Prix has long been an economic powerhouse for Melbourne, with the 2023 event generating an estimated A$268 million in economic impact and drawing a record 452,055 attendees over four days in 2024.
With 2025 tickets selling out in under an hour and surging international attention, this year’s event is expected to drive even greater financial benefits across the tourism, hospitality, and retail sectors.
