Patrick Sean "Paddy" McNally, a man who transformed Formula 1 and helped it become a powerhouse, has passed away at the age of 88.
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According to Auto Racing 1, Paddy died on July 22 at his home in Sevenhampton, Wiltshire (England). He was preceded in death by his wife Anne and his son Sean. He is survived by his son Rollo.
A former journalist for Autosport magazine, he also competed in numerous races across rally, endurance, and sports car series. He then moved over to the business side of motorsports and held numerous roles.
He worked as a sponsorship consultant for Philip Morris's Marlboro brand and he eventually began collaborating with Bernie Ecclestone in the early 1980s.
Paddy ultimately founded Allsport Management SA, a company that secured hospitality and sponsorship rights to the Formula 1 paddock. This is where he made the biggest impact on the sport.
It was under Paddy's direction that his Paddock Club transformed racing hospitality from an afterthought into a powerhouse. The hospitality options drew in big brands and bigger celebrities while bringing in millions upon millions in revenue.
Allsport controlled the Paddock Club until 2006 when it sold to CVC Capital Partners, but Paddy remained involved through his retirement in 2011.
Fast-forward to 2026, and the influence is easy to see. Every Grand Prix on the Formula 1 schedule features countless big names roaming the starting grid or performing concerts for the fans.
This season alone has featured actor Liam Cunningham, celebrity Kim Kardashian, influencer Jolie Sharpe, DJ Khaled, Jimmy Fallon, Ja Rule, Colin Farrell, Jamie Foxx, Patrick Dempsey, and Tommy Hilfiger making appearances at various events.
Ludacris and Snoop Dogg have both performed in past Grand Prix weekends. The Backstreet Boys will also perform after the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix.
If not for Paddy and Allsport, these appearances and performances may not have happened.
