From Fangio to the future: Why Moët's return to F1 is about more than just champagne spray

Some partnerships are about business. Others are about legacy. The return of Moët & Chandon as Formula 1’s Official Champagne manages to be both, whilst writing the next chapter in a story that began when racing was still finding its feet.
The Golden Age Returns
This isn’t just another sponsorship deal. When Moët & Chandon and Formula 1 announce a partnership, they’re rekindling a relationship that stretches back to 1950, when legends like Fangio were first making their mark on the sport. It’s a partnership that saw the birth of one of motorsport’s most iconic traditions – the podium spray – courtesy of Dan Gurney’s impromptu celebration at Le Mans in 1967.
A Tale of Two Houses
The synergy between Moët & Chandon and Formula 1 runs deeper than mere celebration. Both institutions are defined by precision, innovation, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. The Maison’s 280-year legacy of champagne craftsmanship mirrors F1’s own journey of technical evolution and sporting greatness.
The Spa Connection
Perhaps most intriguing is the special relationship with Spa-Francorchamps. The Belgian circuit, nestled in the Ardennes and closest to Champagne’s hallowed terroir, will host the FORMULA 1 MOËT & CHANDON BELGIAN GRAND PRIX 2025. It’s a fitting tribute to a track that witnessed Juan Manuel Fangio’s victory in 1950 – a win that led to a private celebration at Château de Saran with Paul Chandon-Moët himself.
The Heritage That Matters
From Sir Jackie Stewart to Michael Schumacher, Moët has been there for motorsport’s defining moments. Each spray of champagne tells a story of triumph, each pop of the cork a punctuation mark in racing history. The return in 2025 isn’t just about continuing tradition – it’s about crafting new chapters in F1’s 75th anniversary year.
Why It Matters
In an era where sporting partnerships often feel transactional, this reunion speaks to something more profound. It’s a reminder that some traditions transcend commerce, becoming part of the sport’s very fabric. The sight of drivers celebrating with Moët isn’t just marketing – it’s motorsport heritage made manifest.
The Bottom Line
As Formula 1 enters its 75th year, the return of Moët & Chandon to the podium feels less like a new beginning and more like a homecoming. In the words of Sibylle Scherer, Moët’s CEO, it’s about “crafting moments of celebration that belong to everyone.” And isn’t that exactly what Formula 1 has always been about?