Digital Wealth: Why has Standard Chartered Paired with F1?

Standard Chartered and Formula 1 have entered into a multi-year agreement which comes into force for the 2026 season.

The deal positions the bank as the Official Wealth Management and Corporate and Investment Banking Partner for the global racing series.

This partnership aims to link the live event spectacle of the sport with the financial capabilities of the bank.

Both organisations state that the collaboration is built on shared values regarding performance and precision on a global scale.

The bank intends to use the platform to offer trackside activations and exclusive experiences for its clients.

With a global fan base of 827 million people, F1 provides a significant marketing engine for the institution’s wealth management division.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, says: “I am thrilled to welcome Standard Chartered, an incredible financial powerhouse, as a new partner to Formula 1. 

“We are both truly global in nature, sharing fantastic locations around the world with the desire to drive performance and create experiences that excite people and bring them together. 

“With Standard Chartered’s support for F1 Academy, I can’t wait to have them join us in the paddock and see what we can achieve together.”

Standard Chartered currently operates in 19 out of the 21 markets where races are held.

The agreement also includes a dedicated commitment to the F1 Academy.

This all-female series focuses on developing talent within motorsport both on and off the track.

The bank intends to use this pillar of the partnership to champion female professional development across its international footprint.

Roberto Hoornweg, CEO of Corporate & Investment Banking at Standard Chartered, says: “We’re proud to become an Official Partner to F1, which shares our relentless commitment to high performance, innovation, a world-class client experience and distinctive global connectivity. 

“F1’s footprint reflects our own cross-border network, with our presence in 19 out of 21 F1 race markets and many other countries where clients enjoy watching one of the most exciting, fastest-growing sports in the world.”

Strengthening wealth and digital positions

The move into top-tier motorsport sponsorship aligns with the bank's broader strategy to expand its affluent client base.

By targeting the high-net-worth demographic associated with the sport, the bank is reinforcing its status as a premier international wealth manager.

The bank manages a diverse portfolio with total assets often exceeding US$800bn.

This financial scale allows the firm to compete for lucrative investment banking mandates across the racing calendar's host nations.

In the wealth segment, the institution continues to pivot toward digital-first advisory services to capture the next generation of investors.

The F1 Academy involvement specifically mirrors internal corporate social responsibility goals focused on diversity.

As the 2026 season approaches, the bank will integrate its branding across digital and physical race assets.

Judy Hsu, CEO of Wealth and Retail Banking for Standard Chartered, says: “As a leading international wealth manager, we will draw on our international network and expertise to bring clients closer to the excitement of F1.

“Our clients value premium service, innovation and seamless global connectivity, and this partnership will unlock exclusive experiences for them. 

“Our support for F1 Academy reinforces our commitment to championing female talent and developing the next generation of motorsport talent across our unique footprint.”