Formula 1 marketing boss Ellie Norman steps down

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Formula 1's head of marketing Ellie Norman has left the sport after four and a half years with the series.

Norman's appointment in 2017 at the helm of Formula One Management's marketing department followed US media giant Liberty Media's takeover of F1.

Norman - who joined F1 from Virgin Media where she acted as head of advertising and sponsorship - was instrumental in establishing the sport's 'WeRaceAsOne' diversity initiative and in boosting Formula 1's social and digital offerings, including through the introduction of F1TV and through the popular Netflix 'Drive to Survive' series.

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F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali paid tribute to Norman's tenure and contribution since August of 2017.

"During the past five seasons, under Ellie’s leadership of the marketing team, we have rebranded F1 and modernised its approach to fan engagement, which has led to strong growth in our fanbase across the world," said the Italian.

"During that time F1 has become a global brand on social media, in digital content and partnership collaborations, has built a robust direct-to-consumer acquisition business though F1 TV subscriptions and premium hospitality lead generation, and created a fan database and customer relationship management programme, to provide a single customer view and focus on the ‘value of a fan.’

"I want to thank Ellie for everything she has done and wish her all the best as she begins the next exciting chapter in her career."

F1's marketing department will be temporarily led by Sacha Woodward Hill, general counsel for Formula 1 and a member of its board of director, until a new appointment is made.

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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.