While Formula 1’s launch season tends to be awash with commentary about car concepts, masked innovations and garish liveries, some of us pore over the thing that fuels our sport. Money, and more precisely who has secured which sponsor and for how much.
Japanese industrial giant Komatsu turning up on the side of the Williams was one example, another the decision by Italian beer Peroni to shift allegiance from Aston Martin to Ferrari. Stake with its Kick Saubers, and the Visa Cash App team, which once enjoyed more credibility when known as Minardi, grabbed the headlines. But there was so much more to unpick from across F1’s commercial landscape.
Then a press release landed which announced that the F1 Academy had signed Charlotte Tilbury. “Is she quick?” I wondered, turning to Google. Meanwhile the office WhatsApp group intervened.
“How amazing is this?” said Sophie.
“OMG,” replied Debbie.
“Love her products,” enthused Jill.
I apologise to our female readers for what comes next, as I have to admit I did the one thing someone of my age and gender does when faced with his own ignorance. I asked my wife who Charlotte Tilbury is.
Source: Autosport