Pirelli prize winners tour McLaren F1 base

The winners of a Pirelli online competition have completed an exclusive McLaren Formula One team factory tour in Woking, Surrey. Bill Massey and Sarah Cooper were announced as the winners of the competition run on the official Pirelli Facebook page last month. Both winners were allowed to bring one guest for a tour of the team’s headquarters.

The day began with an official welcome and theatre presentation followed by a guided tour of the McLaren Technology Centre, including an in-depth look at the Formula One facility and the historic collection of cars and trophies. The prize winners then enjoyed a wine reception and private lunch in an executive dining room, and the day closed with a presentation of unique photographs and gifts.

Prize winner, Sarah Cooper, commented: “I’m one of McLaren’s biggest fans so I couldn’t believe it when I’d won. I work in a shop and had to close it down for the day so I could attend but I’m so glad that I did as it was one of the most amazing days. I live only two miles down the road from from McLaren, and even though I drive past it every day, I’ve never been lucky enough to get inside. Being allowed to get so close to the cars was such a highlight and the professionalism of the whole company really stood out. It was definitely a day I will never forget.”

Pirelli UK PR manager, Sarah Brown, commented: “I was lucky enough to accompany the prize winners on their tour round the McLaren factory and I was extremely impressed with how smoothly the day ran. The team’s attention to detail is second to none, and the whole factory operates like clockwork. Well done once again to our prize winners and we look forward to running more exclusive competitions through Pirelli’s social media platforms over the course of the season.”

Founded in 1963, McLaren is one of the most successful teams in the history of Formula One having won 12 drivers’ championships and eight constructors’ championships. On the back of Lewis Hamilton’s victory at the Canadian Grand Prix, the team is currently leading the drivers’ standings with McLaren’s Hamilton heading the Pirelli-supplied championship by two points.