Hakkinen appointed Responsible Drinking Ambassador for Johnnie Walker

Mika Hakkinen will be linked with the McLaren Mercedes Team again in 2007 as he'll become ambassador for McLaren's sponsor Johnnie Walker. Hakkinen has been appointed as the Responsible Drinking Ambassador for the Johnnie Walker Formula One sponsorship programme.

The issues of responsibility and choice are at the heart of debates on alcohol. Through this appointment, Mika's work will focus on the importance of designated drivers, and direct engagement activities to promote anti-drink drive messages amongst Formula One race audiences.

"I am extremely proud to represent such a prestigious company as Diageo in this very important role. My years on the racetrack have shown the vital role responsibility and control play in motor sport, these principles are just as important for drivers on the road around the world. This is a role that I truly believe in."

The appointment builds on the association of Johnnie Walker with Team McLaren Mercedes since 2005. The unique partnership has seen over £2 million invested each year to promote responsible drinking messages in Grand Prix markets.