Mastercard has unveiled Mastercard Access Pass, a new global platform designed to give consumers instant access to tailored experiences, exclusive perks, and deeper connections with the brands they love. Launching first in the UAE with the McLaren Formula 1 Team and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the program transforms any existing Mastercard into a gateway to premium content, fan rewards, and personalised engagement.
A Seamless Way to Unlock Exclusive Perks
With Mastercard Access Pass, cardholders can enhance their current debit, credit, or prepaid cards with unique digital card art and special benefits in just a few taps—no new card required.
FAB customers are the first to experience the platform through the McLaren Racing Mastercard Pass, which delivers:
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Limited-edition McLaren card art
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McLaren Plus membership
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Priority access to events, experiences, and merchandise
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Exclusive behind-the-scenes content created only for pass holders
Fans can instantly add the digital card art to their mobile wallet and start exploring the McLaren universe within minutes.
The launch follows Mastercard’s recent announcement that it will become an Official Naming Partner of the McLaren Formula 1 Team from 2026.
Meeting the Demand for Personalised, Passion-Led Experiences
The drive behind Mastercard Access Pass is clear: consumer behaviour is shifting rapidly, especially among younger generations who value personalisation and immersive digital experiences.
Key insight highlights include:
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Nearly half of Gen Z prefer innovative, digital-first payment methods (Mastercard New Payments Index, 2024).
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81% say greater personalisation would strengthen their relationship with their bank (EY, 2022).
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Gen Alpha increasingly stay loyal to fan communities through exclusive content (Youth Blueprint, 2025).
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75% of consumers are more likely to buy from brands that deliver personalised content (Deloitte, 2024).
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70% wish payment cards rewarded passion-driven spending (Mastercard, 2023).
By tapping into passions like motorsport, music, fashion, and gaming, Access Pass helps brands turn transactions into ongoing, personalised consumer engagement.
A Platform for Partner Growth
For issuers, sports teams, and consumer brands, Mastercard Access Pass offers a powerful tool to reach fans more meaningfully — and more sustainably.
“Sports unite us like nothing else,” said Jorn Lambert, Chief Product Officer at Mastercard. “With Mastercard Access Pass, we’ve created a seamless digital gateway to the passions that matter most. Together with partners like McLaren and FAB, we’re delivering exclusive experiences — starting in the UAE and soon expanding globally.”
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Louise McEwen, Chief Marketing Officer at McLaren Racing, added: “Through this activation, we’re bringing fans closer than ever to the McLaren team and creating new opportunities to deepen their connection with Mastercard and us.”
What’s Next?
The McLaren Racing Mastercard Pass is now available to eligible FAB cardholders in the UAE via the FAB mobile app. Members can access their perks instantly and enter for a chance to win a visit to the iconic McLaren Technology Centre.
More designs, partners, and benefits will roll out globally next year as Mastercard Access Pass expands into new regions and passion points.
