Summary
- Leica has introduced the Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition with genuine carbon fibre and Microvelour trim.
- It retains the 60MP full-frame sensor and APO-Summicron 43mm f/2 lens.
- An exclusive Formula 1 Leica Look increases contrast and saturation.
- Pricing is $9,950 in the US and €8,500 in selected European markets.
Leica and Formula 1 have unveiled the Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition, a special full-frame compact camera featuring genuine carbon-fibre components, an exclusive photo look and an €8,500 price in European markets.
The camera marks the brands’ official licensing partnership. It was introduced on October 20, 2026 at the Leica Store & Gallery in Los Angeles, with 2009 Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button and presenter Ariana Bravo taking part. The event also featured 26 motorsport photographs by Callo Albanese.
Real carbon fibre and racing-inspired design
This is more than a carbon-fibre pattern printed on the body. Leica uses genuine, handcrafted German carbon-fibre parts on the wireless-charging handgrip, thumb rest and red soft-release button. The camera also gains a non-slip Microvelour covering inspired by the grip of an F1 steering wheel.
Formula 1 branding appears on the top plate and lens cap. A special braided strap and red highlights complete the package, with the dedicated accessories supplied as part of the edition.
The same photographic platform, with a new Formula 1 Leica Look
Underneath the special finish is the Leica Q3 43 with its fixed APO-Summicron 43mm f/2 ASPH. lens and 60MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor. Triple Resolution Technology supports 60, 36 and 18MP capture, with the standard model’s hybrid autofocus and video features retained.
The new feature with a direct effect on JPEG output is the exclusive “Formula 1” Leica Look. It raises contrast and saturation to evoke the racetrack and paddock. Enabled through the Leica FOTOS app, it can be previewed live in the viewfinder at capture rather than being applied only afterward.
Compatibility with Leica Q3 and Q3 43 photographic accessories is retained. More information here.
Price and availability
The Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition became available on October 20–21, 2026, depending on the announcement and market, through Leica Stores, Leica’s online store and authorised retailers. Its announced US price is $9,950. Official Leica listings in Austria and Germany show €8,500 including VAT; a separate price for Greece could not be confirmed.
Unlike firmware updates for the Leica Q3 family, which improve the operation of existing cameras, the exclusive Formula 1 Look and these design elements belong to this specific camera edition.
What we think
Leica has found a clever way of combining photography with Formula 1 styling without pretending this is a completely new camera. Carbon-fibre controls and Microvelour can contribute to the feel and grip, but a major part of what you are paying for is the design itself.
For actual motorsport photography, the fixed 43mm lens remains the key limitation. It can be great for paddock scenes, driver portraits and nearby action, but it is no substitute for a telephoto lens when a car is on the far side of the circuit. The F1 Look is more useful for getting a distinctive JPEG straight out of camera than as a reason to replace your current kit.
At €8,500, this is primarily for collectors, Formula 1 enthusiasts and photographers who specifically want this version of the Q3 43. If pure image quality is your priority, the regular Q3 43 shares the same photographic foundation.
