Mastercard has introduced Mastercard Access Pass, a program intended to enable banks and commercial partners to integrate digital designs into existing payment cards.
The initiative will debut in the United Arab Emirates with a partnership between McLaren Formula 1 Team and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), providing eligible FAB cardholders access to McLaren-themed digital card art alongside associated benefits, all without necessitating a new card issuance.
This feature builds upon standard debit, credit, or prepaid cards. Users can activate the Pass through their digital wallet and receive the new artwork and perks within minutes. Mastercard plans to extend this platform to other regions and partners in the future, aiming to cater to customers with interests such as sports, entertainment, or community-related activities.
A novel feature on traditional cards
In its first deployment, the McLaren Racing Mastercard Pass offers FAB clients limited-edition card visuals, access to McLaren’s membership program, and opportunities for event attendance and merchandise. This launch follows Mastercard’s announcement that it will take over naming rights for the McLaren Formula 1 team starting from 2026.
Mastercard points out increasing consumer interest in personalized payment experiences among younger demographics. Research by the company and others highlights a preference for digital-first products and a positive reaction to rewards tailored to individual tastes.
Mastercard representatives described the Pass as a simple digital pathway into cardholders’ interests, with sport cited as an enduring source of loyalty. McLaren Racing officials noted that this collaboration is designed to provide closer fan access to team activities in the UAE and deepen their relationship with Mastercard.
The McLaren Racing Mastercard Pass is currently available to eligible FAB customers through the bank’s mobile app. Benefits can be activated instantly, and participants are invited to join promotional draws, such as a visit to the McLaren Technology Centre. Further designs and related perks will be introduced early next year.
