McLaren Automotive and Al Ghassan Motors have unveiled a unique McLaren 12C Spider signed by 2013 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes drivers, Jenson Button and Sergio Perez, as the brand celebrates 50 years this year.   

The special one-off 12C Spider marks the start of anniversary celebrations in the Middle East region, and follows the recent opening of McLaren Manama at the Bahrain World Trade Center, held at the start of the 2013 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix weekend.

The event was attended by both 2013 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 team drivers, where after meeting local VIPs and dignitaries, they took to the stage to sign the carbon fibre plaque which also featured the McLaren 50th anniversary logo, a statement from the company said.     

Bahrain is home to the McLaren Automotive Middle East and Africa regional office and McLaren Automotive and McLaren Group principle shareholder Mumtalakat.

Mark Harrison, McLaren Automotive regional director, Middle East & Africa, said: “The 50th anniversary of McLaren will give us the opportunity to look back and highlight the memorable moments and successes on the road and track that the group, and team, has achieved since 1963.”

“This 12C Spider marks the 50th anniversary and captures the present day McLaren with the signatures of Jenson and Sergio. It gives a rare chance for someone to own the only car in the Middle East.”

"My first race for Vodafone McLaren Mercedes was at the Bahrain Grand Prix in 2010, so it's really exciting to see one of my Formula 1 cars from that season on display at McLaren Manama,” Button said. “This one is particularly special to me, as it is also one of my race-winning cars, having claimed victory with it in China."

“It was great to attend the opening of McLaren Manama,” Perez said. “The showroom is incredible – it’s like a small part of the McLaren Technology Centre in the Middle East. Amazing!”

The McLaren 12C Spider signed by the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 team drivers and featuring the 50th anniversary logo is the only such car available and is available for purchase from McLaren Manama. – TradeArabia News Service