Ferrari renews Philip Morris sponsorship deal

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It may not look like it but big tobacco still enjoys a prominent presence in Formula 1 thanks to Philip Morris and Ferrari.

Marlboro logos disappeared from Ferrari's cars when a ban on cigarette advertising was introduced in 2007 but the partnership's red and white corporate branding is still associated with the Scuderia.

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A statement issued on Monday says a new multi-year agreement has been reached between Philip Morris and Ferrari, thus extending an association with started over four decades ago.

No doubt negotiations were facilitated by Scuderia team boss Maurizio Arrivabene who, before taking the helm at Ferrari, was Philip Morris' marketing man.

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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.