© Mercedes AMG

Although they live their life in a high-octane world, you're unlikely to find George Russell and Lewis Hamilton manning the pumps at a gas station somewhere, unless you're in Malaysia and happen to come across a promo shoot for Mercedes sponsor Petronas.

The long-standing partnership in F1 between the two companies began in 2010 when the Mercedes team was formed on the back of the manufacturer's buy-out of Brawn GP.

Since then, Petronas has steadily supplied its fluid technology to the Brackley squad and powered the latter to all of its 116 wins and eight world titles.

And such a successful association isn't about to end anytime soon as last summer, Mercedes extended Petronas' title sponsorship deal beyond 2026, meaning the Malaysian company will develop the crucial lubricants and sustainable fuel for F1's next generation power units.

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.

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