Leica Camera and Formula 1 have announced a licensing partnership with the introduction of the Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition, a special camera developed around the technical demands and visual identity of motorsport. Unveiled on October 21, 2026, the collaboration introduces carbon fibre components, racing-inspired controls and an exclusive photographic look to Leica’s established Q3 43 platform.
TECH
The camera made its debut at the Leica Store and Leica Gallery in Los Angeles, where Formula 1 presenter Ariana Bravo and 2009 Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button introduced the collaboration. The event also featured an exhibition of 26 motorsport photographs by Italian photographer b, whose work focuses on Formula 1 and racing culture.
The Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition draws directly from the materials and functional details of racing cars. Genuine carbon fibre covers the wireless charging handgrip and appears on the matching thumb rest and soft-release button. Leica manufactured and tested these components exclusively in Germany, bringing a material associated with lightweight racing construction into its camera design.
The carbon fibre surfaces reveal their woven structure under changing light, giving the camera a distinct texture. Their placement around the main contact points allows photographers to experience the material while operating the camera.
A black Microvelour covering takes inspiration from the textured surfaces of racing steering wheels. Red accents appear around the soft-release button and on one of the thumb rest’s function buttons, referencing the colour-coded controls that help drivers locate essential functions during a race.
Formula 1 branding appears on the camera’s top plate and lens cap. The edition also includes a rope carrying strap featuring both brands’ logos, alongside custom packaging with a red interior.
These additions give the camera a recognisable motorsport identity while retaining the compact construction and handling of Leica’s Q3 series.
The special edition retains the technical capabilities of the Leica Q3 43, including its APO-Summicron 43 f/2 ASPH. lens. Its 43mm focal length produces a perspective close to natural human vision, making it suitable for documenting activity in the paddock, capturing portraits and photographing details around the racetrack.
The full-frame BSI CMOS sensor uses Leica’s Triple Resolution Technology, allowing photographers to select between 60, 36 and 18 megapixels. A hybrid autofocus system supports rapid subject acquisition, while the camera’s video capabilities provide further options for recording motorsport environments.
Leica has also developed an exclusive Formula 1 Leica Look, available through the Leica FOTOS App. The photographic setting increases contrast and colour saturation to emphasise the visual qualities of racing environments. Photographers can apply the effect while shooting and preview the results directly in the viewfinder.
The app also allows users to transfer photographs and videos to mobile devices, making the new look part of the camera’s everyday workflow.
The Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition launched on October 21, 2026, with a recommended retail price of $9,950 USD including VAT. Customers can purchase it through Leica Stores, the official Leica online store and authorised specialist retailers. The camera also supports existing Leica Q3 and Q3 43 accessories.
The partnership introduces a new direction for Leica’s special-edition cameras, applying Formula 1 materials and design references to an established photographic system. Its distinctive controls, carbon fibre construction and exclusive image settings connect the two brands through the technical demands of capturing a decisive moment.
