Racing Point hires former Michael Jordan marketing man

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Racing Point F1 has appointed American marketing man Jefferson Slack as the team's new Commercial Managing Director with immediate effect.

Slack's impressive credentials in the world of sport include a marketing chief position with NBA great Michael Jordan during the 1990s, a four-year tenure as CEO of European football club Inter Milan and leading positions at prominent agencies such as Wasserman and IMG.

More recently, Slack has been a commercial adviser to FIBA and MotoGP commercial rights holder Dorna.

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"I believe this is one of the most exciting commercial opportunities, not just in Formula 1, but in the whole of the sports industry," said Slack.

"We are looking to build an iconic new sports brand in Aston Martin F1 Team, and in the process we believe we will create a unique global marketing platform for other brands and partners.

"I am looking forward to working with Lawrence and Otmar, and building a world-class commercial and marketing team."

The appointment comes ahead of the team’s re-branding next season Aston Martin Racing. Slack will
be responsible for the team's commercial and marketing activities, reporting directly to Racing Point CEO and team boss Otmar Szafnauer.

"With the progress we have made this season on the track and with our upcoming relaunch as Aston Martin F1 Team, we have a unique opportunity to create an iconic new sports property that’s at the forefront of Formula 1," commented team owner Lawrence Stroll.

"We are delighted to appoint Jefferson Slack to help us realise the full global commercial and marketing opportunities that lie ahead."

Szafnauer added: "I am delighted that Jefferson is joining us in the newly created role of Managing Director.

"He will be responsible for leading all our commercial and marketing activities as we look to build one of F1’s most successful teams, both on and off the track."

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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.