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Williams partners with Royal Bank of Canada for 2020

ROKiT Williams Racing has added another Canadian sponsor to its portfolio of partners, the Grove-based outfit welcoming the Royal Bank of Canada to its team for 2020.

Williams ended 2019 - the worst season in its modern history - with a depressed sporting track record, but the British outfit's finances also took a hit following the loss of PKN Orlen and Unilever's Rexona brand.

However, Williams rung in the new year by extending its partnership with Canadian food product company Sofina Foods, owned by the father of its new driver, 24-year-old Nicholas Latifi, and sealing a deal with renowned Italian coffee company Lavazza.

Latifi-owned Sofina expands partnership with Williams

On Friday, Williams' Canadian ties extended to global financial institution, the Royal Bank of Canada, whose corporate logo will adorn the nose of the team's FW43, on teamwear and on the driver suits of Latifi and George Russell.

“We are delighted that RBC has partnered with the team for the 2020 season,” said Willaism deputy team principal Claire Williams.

"Formula One is a sport on a world stage and we’re proud to partner with a global financial institution that is passionate about helping young athletes achieve success in all forms of sport."

Matt McGlynn, Vice President, Brand Marketing, RBC said: "Unlocking the potential of youth and young athletes is a priority at RBC, and this partnership will allow us to continue to support talented Canadian racer Nicholas Latifi as he makes his debut this spring with Formula One.

"We look forward to working with our partners at ROKiT Williams Racing in 2020 and cheering on Nicholas from his home country."

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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.