WEBTOON is launching ‘Mickey X Formula 1 Racing to the Top!’ – an original vertical comics series that will run exclusively on WEBTOON’s global platforms throughout the 2026 Formula 1 race season. The series will launch on March 6th during the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, with new episodes dropping tied to each race weekend throughout the season.

“Formula 1 and Disney sparked a cultural moment felt worldwide – and it was only the beginning. This year is about turning that moment into a season‑long story,” said Tasia Filippatos, President of Disney Consumer Products.

“A new digital chapter with WEBTOON gives fans a reason to stay connected between race weekends, brought to life through product and standout moments that feel authentic to each stop on the calendar.”

Starting at the Chinese Grand Prix next month, select Formula 1 races throughout the season will feature ‘Fuel the Magic’ fanzone retail pop-ups, with new branded merchandise inspired by the host city. Race-specific pieces and a core collection from Disney and Formula 1 will be available at the F1 Hub and Grand Prix Plaza, as well as online at F1.com.

“The continuation of our ‘Fuel the Magic’ campaign with Disney is far greater than just a sports partnership, but one that leverages both Formula 1 and Disney’s power of immersive cultural storytelling and engaging entertainment,” said Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer of Formula 1.

“From unique product launches to fan experiences, digital content and WEBTOON integration, we’re offering even more unique ways that new and existing audiences can engage with our sport and experience race events like no other.”

In addition, Gentle Monster will introduce the 2026 Circuit Collection – a global eyewear collaboration with Disney and Formula 1. The range includes three exclusive designs inspired by Disney’s Mickey & Friends and Formula 1. The launch will also include pop-up experiences in Seoul and Shanghai.

Elsewhere, the Disney Store will launch an exclusive Mickey Mouse plush in a Formula 1 uniform. It will be available first in Australia ahead of the Australian Grand Prix, with a global roll-out planned later this year. New collaborations will also launch with Uniqlo, alongside an expanded Disney x Formula 1 core collection available online.

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A Carmen theatrical animated feature, animated series, and licensing and consumer products program is in development.

“At ZAG, we’ve always believed in creating heroes who inspire kids to believe in themselves,” said Jeremy Zag, Founder and President at ZAG.

“When I met Carmen, her journey and perseverance impressed and inspired me. I’m excited to let her personal story guide us as we imagine a new hero for tomorrow.”

Carmen Jorda added: “Racing has shaped my life, and partnering with ZAG means turning my passion into a story that can inspire millions of young girls around the world.

“I want them to know they can dream big, fight hard, and take their place on the track – just like I did.”

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The range brings to life eight Formula 1 teams across Hot Wheels Singles, 5-pack and Premium products. Each 1:64 die-cast car is built to race on the Hot Wheels orange track, while the premium cars feature intricate details to replicate an actual F1 car. These include a metal body and chassis, authentic team liveries and Pirelli branded tyres.

The collection also includes the Hot Wheels Formula 1 Sprint & Grand Prix Race Circuit track sets. This sees racers battle to overtake each other on sets equipped with gas pedal booster and a manual DRS diverter.

“The spirited response from fans around the world following our Hot Wheels and Formula 1 announcement has been thrilling,” said Roberto Stanichi, EVP of Hot Wheels and Global Head of Vehicles and Building Sets at Mattel.

“The next phase of the partnership is all about giving fans the products and experiences that bring the worlds of Hot Wheels and F1 together in a way that has never been done before, and we’re just getting started.”

Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer at Formula 1, added: “It’s fantastic to see the Hot Wheels Formula 1 collection hit the shelves. We want to increase our fans’ passion for racing, and these superbly and intricately designed cars will allow fans to experience the drama and excitement of Formula 1 in the palm of their hands every time they play at home.”

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Spanning more than 160,000sqft once complete, Immerse LDN will be dedicated to showcasing immersive experiences and original productions across new venue spaces at London’s Royal Docks.

Opening in August, Immerse LDN will first be home to The FRIENDS Experience: The One In London and Formula 1: The Exhibition. The FRIENDS Experience will boast recreated sets, backdrops, costumes and props from the hit show, while Formula 1: The Exhibition promises an interactive journey through the story of the sport.

“Our 25,000 sqm expansion, property acquisitions, venue infrastructure enhancements and now our new waterfront event space, Immense LDN, underscore our dedication to innovation and diversification – positioning ExCeL London at the forefront of the global event industry,” said Humaid Al Dhaheri, Chairman of ExCeL and Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group.

ExCeL CEO Jeremy Rees added: “ExCeL London is already synonymous as the home of world-leading events. Now we want to build on that and create a space where guests, both local and international, can enjoy the very best of immersive and experiential entertainment in one place.

“This project has been years in the making and a multi-million-pound investment which, once fully complete, will attract an additional 2.5 million visitors a year to the Royal Docks and will be one of the most connected entertainment districts in the world, benefitting from the high-speed Elizabeth line, two DLR stations and the IFS Cloud Cable Car.

“Offering something for everyone, Immerse LDN aspires to become a destination in its own right, where visitors can explore experiences and enjoy great food and drink, all set against the striking waterfront of the Royal Docks.”

For more information, head to: https://immerseldn.com/

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The new licensees secured range from apparel to collectibles to figurines, including a collaboration with Abercrombie & Fitch developed by apparel partner Outerstuff. The Abercrombie & Fitch collection includes two adult t-shirt designs featuring artwork created especially for this year’s F1 races. Outerstuff also have a multi-territory deal for men’s, women’s and kids fashion apparel.

Elsewhere, Heal Tread have launched a range of adult socks based on Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake. The designs feature stylised images of the drivers and prints inspired by the car livery from the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

In toys, AFX has come on board for an Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake slot car and racing set, as well as individual cars. The cars will launch worldwide before the end of 2023. Also in toys, Yu Tung Technology Ltd – also known as Yolopark – will launch Alfa Romeo F1 Team KICK racing block set this winter in China and NZG is on board for a die cast 1:18 scale model car.

Stilo will launch a die cast mini replica helmet collection featuring helmet designs worn by Valtteri Bottas, which will be available in specialty retailers worldwide and online. Also in collectibles, driver and pit stop crew statues and a stylised Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake model car will debut in retailers and online from December, via a deal with SFX Collectibles.

The Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake brand has also expanded into official posters and fine art prints through a worldwide deal with Automobilist S.R.O.

“The scope of these deals highlights the global surge in popularity for motorsport brands, and especially a strong appetite amongst consumers to celebrate the F1 season,” said Victoria Whellans, Commercial Director at ASPIRE.

“ASPIRE’s strategy is to bring a creative and curated approach to lifestyle brand management, applying a global perspective at local level. This incredible range of products offers fans new opportunities to engage with their favourite team and share their love for the Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake brand.”

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