Codemasters adds Mercedes 'Black Arrow' livery to F1 2020

©Codemasters

Codemasters' skilled coders have reacted swiftly to Mercedes last-minute livery change for the 2020 season, updating the sport's official software adding an ominous 'Black Arrow' to the game's grid.

F1 2020 was released to the public earlier this month and initially did not include Mercedes' new black-based livery.

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But a round-the-clock effort from Codemasters' geniuses has resulted in a patch being added that brings the Merc's scheme up to date, along with Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas' overalls and helmet.

The update is readily available for those who race on a PC, while Xbox and PlayStation 4 gamers will need to wait another couple of days before downloading the patch.

Codemasters is set to implement more tweaks to its ever-evolving software, with McLaren's "We race as One" rainbow logo expected to appear in the coming months.

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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.