F1: Ferrari to Race in Blue Livery at Miami GP

Ferrari last adorned a blue livery was in 1964 when John Surtees became world champion in the 250LM

Ferrari, the most successful and iconic constructor in Formula 1, is set to race in a blue livery at the upcoming Miami Grand Prix on 6 May 2024. The move, reported by F1 commentator Will Buxton, could be to commemorate a rumoured $500 million deal with PC maker HP, which is expected to become Ferrari's first title sponsor since Marlboro and its surrogate brand Mission Winnow in 2020.

While the idea of a blue Ferrari may seem unconventional, it is not entirely unprecedented. In 1964, Ferrari raced in blue after the FIA refused to homologate the 250LM entered by NART in its colours, enabling John Surtees to secure his maiden F1 crown. However, this will be the first time the Scuderia Ferrari team itself will race in blue.

The blue livery could also be a celebration of the 60th anniversary of Ferrari's presence in North America, as this is the first race on the continent this year. In 1964, the blue livery marked Ferrari's arrival in the North American market.

Reports suggest that HP has matched Red Bull's $500 million deal with Oracle, which has been the largest title sponsorship payout a team has received in F1 to date. The HP deal is reportedly funding Lewis Hamilton's blockbuster $400 million contract with Ferrari. HP is expected to become the title sponsor from the 2025 season onwards, and this livery change could be a way to celebrate the new partnership, as HP's corporate colours are dark blue.