F1 to sell chequered flag squares for charity

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Formula 1 will sell squares on its race-ending chequered flag to raise money for charity, with the novel scheme potentially generating over £11,000 per race.

The stratagem has been devised to support the sport's #WeRaceAsOne initiative that was announced this week and which aims to tackle major issues in Formula 1, like inequality or the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

F1 to launch #WeRaceAsOne initiative in Austria

At each Grand Prix this year, fans will be able to purchase one of 56 squares on the chequered flag, with their name printed on their specific square, while the remaining 24 squares will be passed on by the event's promoter to fans and guests.

Once the race is over, fans will then receive their square mounted and framed, along with an image of the flag in action and a hologram to guarantee authenticity.

Fans can already buy squares for next week's opening Austrian Grand Prix for £199.99, with purchases made through the F1 Authentics website.

©Formula1

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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.