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Latifi-owned Sofina expands partnership with Williams

Sofina Foods, the food product company founded and managed by Canadian billionaire Michael Latifi, has expanded its sponsorship partnership with ROKiT Williams Racing for 2020.

The new deal, which is likely linked to Williams' recruitment of Latifi's son Nicholas, comes at an opportune time for the Grove-based outfit which lost several of its sponsors at the end of last season.

Robert Kubica's personal sponsor, the PKN Orlen oil company, did not renew its commitment to Williams following the Polish driver's departure from the team at the end of 2019

'Rock bottom' Williams can't afford repeat of 2019

But Williams also lost long-time backer Rexona, the deodorant brand owned by Unilever, while smaller sponsors such as Symantec, Omnitude and Tata have also decided not to sign extensions with the struggling squad.

Therefore, Sofina's increased sponsorship is welcomed by Williams but also very necessary.

"We are pleased to announce that Sofina has continued their partnership with the team for a second year," said Williams deputy team principal Claire Williams.

"Sofina’s involvement in the sport has been extremely valuable to their long-term vision, and we are committed to helping them achieve their goals.

"We have thoroughly enjoyed working with them and we look forward to this continuing in the year ahead."

Michael Latifi

Brent Quartermain, Sofina Foods executive vice-president and chief commercial officer, said:

"Having a presence in Formula One has brought great value to our company, so it was a logical step to build on that success by increasing our involvement with Williams for the 2020 season.

"Formula One is a sport that has mass global appeal and is perfectly suited to our international growth ambitions.

"We’re looking forward to supporting our friends at ROKiT Williams Racing and aiming for a successful season both on and off the track."

In addition to Sofina's increased budget, Williams also announced renowned Italian coffee maker Lavazza - a personal sponsor of Nicholas Latifi - as an official team partner for the 2020 season.

Hopefully, the team's upcoming FW43 will prove to be a significant improvement on its predecessor. If not, Williams' very existence may be in jeopardy in the future.

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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.