Mercedes emblazons rainbow Star on W13 for 'Pride Month'

©Mercedes

It's Pride Month around the world and the Mercedes F1 team is showing its public support for the LGBTQ+ community by running a rainbow Star on its cars for the next three races.

Mercedes' multi-colored logo will not only appear on the Brackley squad's cars in Azerbaijan, Canada and Great Britain but also on the helmets and overalls of Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.

"As part of our Accelerate 25 programme, displaying the Pride star represents a visual expression of our commitment to creating a more diverse and inclusive team," stated Mercedes.

"We firmly believe that promoting a culture in which our team members can freely express their personality and identity will result in a stronger and more performant team.

Read also: Mercedes still committed to diversity despite livery reset

"Under the banner of the Mercedes-Benz Pride Star, we share a commitment to a culture of diversity, inclusivity and stand against all forms of discrimination.

"Everyone is different. But we are all equal. We stand for openness, trust and fairness. And we believe everyone deserves to be respected and appreciated for who they are."

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.