The news comes days after the bank announced its principle sponsorship of the Ferrari F1 team. The bank will join up with Ferrari from 2010 following a five-year deal.
Santander is also the title sponsor of the British, German and Italian Grand Prix events.
Martin Whitmarsh, Team Principal of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, referring presumably to Santander's deal with Ferrari said: ‘We are very proud of our relationship with Santander and to be part of their ever-expanding Formula 1 involvement. We welcome, and wish them well with, their other activities - including, but not limited to, the afore-mentioned race sponsorships.'
Juan Manuel Cendoya, Senior Vice President of Communications, Corporate Marketing and Research, added ‘The year 2010 will create a newly-refreshed scenario for Santander in terms of Formula 1 sponsorship. Our continuing partnership with Vodafone McLaren Mercedes - and especially with Lewis Hamilton - will fit very well with our ongoing development of the Santander brand, not only in the UK but globally too'.
Lewis Hamilton has been subjected to racist abuse from small sections of Spanish Formula One fans over the past two seasons but welcomed the deal by adding: ‘ The Santander people are very cool and push home the value and strength of teamwork. With Santander I have also had the opportunity to attend some events in Spain. I love racing in Spain, too - Spanish motorsport fans are always so enthusiastic.'
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