F1 Gossip: McLaren's title sponsor Vodafone leaves F1 business at the end of 2013

Starting last year, there has been some speculation regarding the possibility that leading global mobile communication provider Vodafone would not extend its partnership with McLaren-Mercedes beyond the 2013 Formula 1 season.

In a recent interview at the Australian Grand Prix going on this week-end, officials from Woking have admitted their official title sponsor is set to leave the competition at the end of this year as, according to statements from Vodafone, it managed to completely fulfill its targets set in 2007 when it entered Formula 1 to back the British team and thus it is now planning to take on new challenges outside the motorsports' world.

Moreover, McLaren executives have declared that an exciting announcement shall be made on 2nd December, right after the competition reaches finish line and the sponsoring contract with Vodafone as title partner expires. Meanwhile, McLaren is engaged to not make any comments on this subject and to not reveal the name of its future major sponsor.

Rumors indicate there are at least two major companies looking to secure their sponsorship for the Britons: American beverage producer Coca-Cola and Mexican telecommunication operator Telmex.

With Coca-Cola, most of the car's livery could be retained in the current styling as colours of the two corporations are highly similar. But with increased chances Telmex is the chosen company in the end according to inside reports, the exterior design of the future MP4-29 single-seater for the 2014 season could actually change quite a lot.

Just a quick remind: McLaren's newcomer Sergio 'Checo' Perez gets a substantial financial support for his F1 involvement from Mexican tycoon Carlos Slim, who also controls Telmex company. Draw yourself a conclusion... :)

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