Szafnauer: 'We can make the Aston Martin name proud from the start'

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Aston Martin team boss Otmar Szafanauer believes the Silverstone-based outfit can make the legendary manufacturer's name "proud from the start" this year in F1.

Racing Point switched its branding over the New Year as it ushers in a new era, substituting pink for British racing green across its social media platforms and on its soon-to-be-relaunched website.

"We have had almost a year to prepare and reach this moment and we can’t wait to see the reaction when we finally unveil our new identity as Aston Martin Formula 1 Team," commented Szafnauer in the revamped team's press release.

"Representing such an iconic brand is a huge privilege for every member of the team.

"We have earned a well-deserved reputation for aiming beyond the horizon, so we are confident we can make the Aston Martin name proud right from the start.

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"It’s the beginning of a new journey and I can feel an extra energy in the team, with the determination to push performance more than ever.

"Combined with some of the most creative minds in the industry, a true racer mentality and spirit of will that has served us so well over the years, we have every reason to be excited about the future."

The Aston Martin name, which only entered a handful of Grands Prix in its history having enjoyed great success in sportscar racing, last competed in Formula 1 at the British GP at Silverstone in 1960 with Roy Salvadori and Frenchman Maurice Trintignant.

"Formula 1 is an extremely powerful platform that will play a key role in Aston Martin’s strategy and the company’s evolutionary path," commented team owner and Aston Martin Executive Chairman Lawrence Stroll.

"It is a truly global sport with a huge audience that we believe can help further shine the brand and further increase its desirability around the world.

"This is a brand that has already had tremendous success in top-tier international motorsports like the 24 Hours of Le Mans – and now we have the opportunity to write a new page in the history books.

"It is an extremely exciting prospect for anyone who is a lover of the Aston Martin brand, for fans of Formula 1 and the sport itself."

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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.