French Grand Prix gets a title sponsor for its 2018 return

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The French Grand Prix returns to the calendar this year after a ten year absence, and with its resurgence comes a title sponsor thanks to Pirelli.

Formula 1's exclusive tyre manufacturer will figure prominently next June at the Circuit Paul Ricard and in all of the event's official communication.

“We’re very proud to be at the forefront of the return of the Formula 1 Pirelli Grand Prix de France 2018,” said Mario Isola, Pirelli Head of Car Racing.

“F1 is an extraordinary platform for research and development for our technical teams, but also a wonderful communication tool.

“As France is one of the biggest markets, it was key for us to reinforce our visibility and our presence on the circuit and the paddock.

“The French Round at Le Castellet will be an important moment in the 2018 season and Pirelli is happy to be part of it as a title sponsor.”

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Formula One Management also recently announced a two-year extension of the sport's title sponsorship deal with Singapore Airlines for the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, a commercial relationship that started in 2014 between the carrier and the popular Asian event.

“F1 is delighted to extend its relationship with Singapore Airlines,' said Chairman and CEO of Formula 1, Mr Chase Carey.

“The strength of Singapore as a destination is an example of the excitement F1 is creating around the globe and having prestigious partners such as Singapore Airlines shows our ambitious vision is shared by the market leading companies around the world.”

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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.