Race and classic pictures

Mercedes goes green for Petronas anniversary at Singapore GP

Mercedes has added a splash of green to its W15 contender for this weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix to celebrate the 50th anniversary of long-standing partner, Petronas.

The car’s usual silver sections have been swapped out for a vibrant green hue, paying tribute to Petronas in style.

Malaysia’s state-owned oil producer no longer has a home Grand Prix, but with Singapore being just across the border, it’s the closest Formula 1 comes to their backyard.

Mercedes and Petronas have been inseparable since the team’s return to F1 as a works outfit in 2010. Over the last 15 years, their partnership has been nothing short of legendary, powering the team to eight constructors’ championships.

With Petronas’ cutting-edge oil and lubricants, Mercedes drivers have clinched seven world titles, with six going to Lewis Hamilton and one to Nico Rosberg.

Hamilton himself couldn’t be more excited about the revamped look.

“Petronas have played such a crucial role in the success that we’ve enjoyed,” commented the Mercedes driver.

“The livery looks incredible. I can’t wait to see it on the car in the garage tomorrow and then to get behind the wheel on Friday.

“I am sure the fans will love seeing it up close and it will shine brightly under the lights of Singapore."

Team Principal Toto Wolff echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the deep bond between Mercedes and Petronas.

“This livery is not only a celebration of their 50th anniversary, but a reflection of Petronas’ importance in our team’s story and honours our journey together.”

Special liveries are a rarity for Mercedes. The last time they deviated from their classic design was in 2019 at the German Grand Prix, where they ran a part-white retro livery to celebrate 125 years of motorsport.

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.