Haas and Rich Energy 'amicably' end F1 partnership

The Haas F1 outfit and Rich Energy have announced that they have amicably agreed to end their partnership agreement in F1 with immediate effect.

The termination of the deal marks the end of a saga that started over the summer when controversial Rich Energy boss Williams Storey was ousted from the energy drink company which has struggled from the outset to establish it legitimacy in the space.

From Storey's over-confident and silly claims of toppling Red Bull on and off the race track to court orders relating to a copyright infringement with Whyte Bikes, Rich Energy's sponsorship of Haas only survived in the past few months thanks to the US outfit's binding legal approach to its agreement.

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"While enjoying substantial brand recognition and significant exposure through its title partnership of Haas F1 Team in 2019, a corporate restructuring process at Rich Energy will see the need for a revised global strategy," Haas said in a statement released on Monday.

"Subsequently, Haas F1 Team and Rich Energy concluded a termination of the existing partnership was the best way forward for both parties.

"Haas F1 Team would like to express its thanks and best wishes to the stakeholders at Rich Energy."

Haas has not revealed any details about the livery which the team's VF-19 will adopt from Singapore, but a return to Haas' corporate red, white and grey colors is one option.

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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.