A salute to John Hogan - F1's original Marlboro man

Former Marlboro marketing boss John Hogan sadly died on Sunday at the age of 76 from complications due to COVID-19.

As he led Philip Morris' foray into F1 in the early seventies and ensured its dominant presence in the sport thereafter, Hogan became one of Grand Prix racing's greatest power brokers.

Marlboro became synonymous with motor racing as its brand's sponsorship, expertly managed by Hogan, funded teams - mainly McLaren and Ferrari - and shaped the careers of countless drivers over several decades.

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"John was a gentleman, a pioneer and a legend of motorsport and Formula 1," wrote McLaren boss Zak Brown on Twitter. "On a personal level he was a brilliant mentor and friend.

I wouldn’t be where I am today without John Hogan and there are many in the sport who would say the same," said McLaren boss Zak Brown on Twitter.

"Respected by everyone, he taught and advised me wisely. My deepest sympathies to Annie, Ally and Andrew. RIP Hogie."

Formula 1 also paid tribute to Hogan's marketing career and his impact on motorsport.

"We are all saddened to hear that the incredible John Hogan has passed away," read a tweet from Formula 1 on Sunday evening. "He was a brilliant man who left an indelible mark on the sport. Our thoughts are with all his family and friends."

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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.