Never miss a good marketing opportunity, even during a crisis

©Renault

Renault's savvy marketing team is catering to the hygiene needs of its die-hard fans in these difficult times, with the French outfit becoming the first F1 outfit to include a branded COVID-19 mask in its line of team merchandise.

The flashy yellow and black accessory is washable and reusable and meets the latest AFNOR/Apave specifications.

It's undoubtedly a good marketing ploy, and one that will see Renault donate all profits from the sale of the masks to associations.

Which team will follow suit?

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.