Carbon fiber is not traditionally used in Leica cameras, but it’s the defining material in motor racing, so the Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition, is made from genuine carbon. 

Two long-established brands, Leica Camera and Formula 1, have announced their collaboration as part of a licensing partnership and will debut a special edition Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 camera, which was introduced at an exclusive event at the Leica Store and Gallery on Oct. 20th, 2026.

The collaboration was presented to guests by Formula 1 presenter Ariana Bravo and 2009 FIA Formula 1 Drivers’ World Champion Jenson Button. A series of 26 motorsport photographs by Callo Albanese were also on display at the event. The Italian photographer specializes in Formula 1 and motorsport photography. 

 Here is the story behind the project of this special edition Leica Q3, as shared by Leica:

 Both brands have a long tradition of innovation. Driven by this spirit, they created a camera that enables exceptionally authentic photography and translates the fascination sparked by motorsport into a handcrafted design. This is achieved through features including a wireless charging handgrip with a carbon fiber shell, a soft-release button with a carbon inlay and red rim, and a matching thumb rest. Its details also include a non-slip Microvelour covering modelled on a racing steering wheel, an F1 logo on the top plate and lens cap, and a rope strap included in the set that is in keeping with the carbon fiber components and bears both brands’ logos. This is craftsmanship from Leica, inspired by the world of Formula 1. 

A Partner When It Matters Most: The Decisive Moment

Formula 1 races take place in an environment exerting the highest technical demands. Performance does not stem from a single element, but from the precise interplay of components and team members. All of these factors are united by a commitment to keep fine-tuning this interplay throughout an entire season. A Leica camera is created with a similar approach: the optics, sensor, design and mechanics are fine-tuned until there is nothing that stands between the photographer and their subject. 

Leica Camera and Formula 1 share the same values: excellence, precision, courage and the pursuit of perfection. They are also united in the certainty that success is decided in fractions of a second and in moments that cannot be repeated. Whether it’s in the cockpit or behind the camera, the responsibility for success lies with one person. 

The new Leica Q3 embodies these goals. Leica mentions “Craftsmanship with a Racing Spirit” and says that “the visible fiber structure on this camera edition is made from genuine carbon. This material is not traditionally used in Leica cameras. In motor racing, however, carbon is the defining material because it combines low weight with extreme rigidity. The carbon fiber parts for the Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition have been manufactured and tested exclusively in Germany.” 

According to Leica, “this creates a cohesive look from the handgrip to the thumb rest and soft-release button, and the exceptionally even finish makes the craftsmanship palpable. Light falling on the surface emphasizes the texture, giving it shifting visual depth with every movement. Carbon fiber is positioned at the key points where the camera is held and operated. The connection to motorsport is therefore not just visual, but can be felt with every shot.” 

The carbon fiber is complemented by a black Microvelour covering whose texture is modelled on racing steering wheels. That’s also where the idea for the red accents came from: the control elements on the steering wheel are color-coded to help the driver find them quickly. The soft-release button and one of the two function buttons on the thumb rest feature the same color scheme. The set is completed by a special carrying strap featuring F1 branding and custom-designed packaging with red inlay. Every detail reflects the same level of precision demanded on the track. 

The Leica Q3 43 provided the technical basis for this special edition. With a focal length of 43 millimeters, the APO-Summicron 43 f/2 ASPH. lens provides an angle of view that closely resembles the way the human eye naturally perceives the world. There’s no need to zoom, search or miss the moment. This is particularly beneficial in the paddock and around the racetrack, where atmosphere and proximity are key to capturing the authentic essence of the scene. Thanks to Triple Resolution Technology, the BSI CMOS full-frame sensor provides the option of 60, 36 or 18 megapixels. A fast hybrid autofocus system and extensive video functions complete the package. 

The new Leica ‘Formula 1’ look was specifically developed for this camera to create a rendering that complements the world of motorsport. Higher contrast and richer saturation capture the atmosphere of the racetrack and paddock in the final image. This look is available exclusively on this camera via the Leica FOTOS App, and can be applied immediately while taking photos so that the effect is visible in the viewfinder, rather than only emerging during post-processing. The same app then transfers images and videos to mobile devices. Thus, the collaboration between Leica Camera and Formula 1 is not only reflected in the materials and design, but also in the visual aesthetic itself.

The Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition is available at all Leica Stores, in the Leica Online Store and from specialist retailers. The retail price is $9,950. This edition is compatible with the Leica Q3 and Q3 43 photography accessories.