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McLaren Press Release


Monte Carlo, Wednesday, 24th May 2006: Team McLaren Mercedes and Steinmetz unveiled their latest collaboration earlier today in the build-up to the 2006 Monaco Grand Prix.

Steinmetz has worked in conjunction with Team McLaren Mercedes’ engineers to manufacture a Diamond steering wheel. The Mercedes-Benz star on both Kimi Raikkonen's and Juan Pablo Montoya's steering wheels have been emblazoned with round, brilliant cut, white, natural diamonds, expertly cut by Steinmetz, creating a visual impact inside the cockpit never seen before.

To announce the creation of the Diamond steering wheels, Steinmetz commissioned the creation of an exact replica of this year’s Team McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 car, made from two tonnes of ice, into which Kimi Raikkonen, the ‘Iceman’, climbed. The ‘Iceman’, in his ice car, with his ‘iced’ steering wheel – a suitable way to announce to the world Steinmetz and Team McLaren Mercedes’ new Formula 1 creation.

Steinmetz, creators of the world’s finest diamonds, and Team McLaren Mercedes are both leaders in their respective fields, which although very different, rely on many similar principles. Flawless engineering, groundbreaking design and unparalleled performance are all traits the partners share in common.

Nir Livnat, CEO of Steinmetz, “We are extremely proud to have worked with Team McLaren Mercedes on such a truly bespoke and unique creation. Not only is it personal to the driver and fundamental in the racing of the car, but it also shows the expert level of patience, craftsmanship and engineering that is necessary for cutting and polishing diamonds. We hope that the steering wheels help the Team McLaren Mercedes drivers steer their way to another victory this year”

This collaboration marks the continuation of the relationship between Team McLaren Mercedes and Steinmetz which began in Monaco, with the creation of Steinmetz’s Diamond Helmets last year. The helmets have now been sold and $400.000 have been raised for four charities nominated by Kimi, Juan Pablo and Ron Dennis; 'The Senna Foundation', 'Tommy's', 'Formula Smiles' and 'SOS Kinderdorf International'.