Force India gets big dollars for turning pink!

The sponsorship deal signed by Force India with Austrian water technology company BWT is reputed to be worth perhaps $20 million a year.

The figure was published by Austrian newspaper Kleine Zeitung after yesterday's unveiling of the Siverstone-based outfit's new deal and striking pink livery.

"The sponsorship is said to bring in between $15 and $20 million," the report said.

"The arrival of BWT is huge news and represents one of the most significant partnerships in our ten year history," said team boss Vijay Mallya.

The internet was rife with jokes of all sorts about the team's all-pink livery, undoubtedly a first in F1.

Former Force India driver Nico Hulkenberg chimed in via Twitter, mocking the cotton-candy shade and claiming it was the true reason for his move to Renault.

We'll kindly remind the Hulk that he's wearing yellow trousers this year in F1!

Now you finally understand why I left Force India.

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.