Upon the announcement, Roberto Castello Branco, Chief Executive Officer, Petrobras, said: “We recognize the importance of McLaren in global motorsport and we are very satisfied with the results delivered during the two years of our partnership.

“The project allowed Petrobras to develop high-technology gasoline and lubricants through research with new raw materials and tests performed in extreme conditions. The technological development will be used in lubricant and fuel products.

“We see in McLaren a commitment to innovation and also the possibility of future partnerships.” At the same time, Brown, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Racing, added: “We would like to thank Petrobras for their partnership and support.

“We have great respect for their technical and scientific capabilities, and there is no doubt the company’s technicians have made substantial progress in the time we have been working together.

“We wish everyone at Petrobras every success and hope to see them back in the sport again in the future.” The release hasn’t stated the year when it ends but it is assumed that they will see-through the 2019 F1 season, at least.

Should they conclude it in 2019, McLaren will have to find a partner for 2020 when they will still use the Renault power unit. If they opt for Petronas, they will have to work together with Renault before 2021 when Mercedes comes in.

Here’s the last story on the deal