Sponsor Unilever transfers from Williams to McLaren

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Long-time Williams sponsor Unilever has departed the Grove-based outfit and initiated a technical partnership with McLaren.

The renowned British-Dutch multinational consumer goods company had been involved with Williams - through its Rexona deodorant brand - since 2015.

McLaren's long-awaited revival last season, validated by its fourth-place finish in the 2019 Constructors' championship, has undoubtedly boosted the Woking-based outfit's commercial profile and helped it lure new partners to the team.

McLaren and Unilever will work together to drive developments in the field of engineering and digital while also promoting talent through mentorships, inclusivity programmes and the co-creation of an Engineering Academy.

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"McLaren and Unilever are two organisations with a global reputation for innovating, inspiring and leading in the technology industry," said McLaren boss Zak Brown.

"For more than 50 years, McLaren has been an innovator in engineering and the driving force behind cutting-edge technological firsts and pioneering breakthroughs.

"This partnership allows us to share knowledge and expertise between two global organisations, developing in integral areas to both businesses.

"We are looking forward to starting this partnership in the 2020 season."

Dave Penrith, Chief Engineer, Unilever said: "This is a very exciting partnership for both Unilever and McLaren.

"Together we will use our combined efforts to solve both current and future challenges with some of the best engineering minds in the world, and also develop the next level of talent within our companies.

"The application of McLaren technology and culture will be an important component as we make our business ever more agile, sustainable and responsive to customers and consumers."

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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.