Ferrari to lose Vodafone sponsorship

UPDATE This rumor moves to 'fact' today as it was announced today that Vodafone will be the primary sponsor for McLaren in 2007 and beyond. The Ferrari contract runs through 2006. See Hot News page for announcement. 12/06/05 Vodafone is reviewing its £50m sponsorship of the Ferrari Formula 1 racing team just weeks after it forced an early end to its Manchester United sponsorship.

Although its contract with Ferrari does not expire until the end of 2006, the mobile phone operator is believed to be considering ending the tie early. It follows the team's underperformance this season.

If Vodafone does end the deal it is expected to switch its investment to another team.

A Vodafone spokeswoman confirmed the sponsorship was under review but denied a decision had been made or that it was pulling out of F1. An announcement is expected imminently.