Virgin team signs solar energy sponsor

Hot on the heels of Jerome D’Ambrosio’s home Grand Prix in Belgium, Marussia Virgin Racing is pleased to announce a new partnership with Belgian company Soleco ahead of this weekend’s final European round of the 2011 FIA Formula One World Championship in Italy.

Based in Opglabbeek, Soleco is an environmental company that transforms sunshine into electricity through photovoltaic systems such as solar panels and inverters. Soleco pledged their support to Jérôme after he, along with other drivers from the Gravity Sport Management stable, made a personal commitment to offset the carbon footprint associated with his Formula One racing career.

The new partnership will see the Soleco logo appearing on Jerome’s race suit and helmet, as well as on the Marussia Virgin Racing MVR-02 race car, for the balance of the 2011 season.

Andy Webb, CEO, Marussia Virgin Racing
“We are delighted to welcome Soleco to Marussia Virgin Racing and congratulations to Jerome. He has acquitted himself well in his debut year of Formula One racing and it is very positive for him to have attracted the attentions of an emerging Belgian company."

Bob Geekens, CEO, Soleco
“After many years, finally there is a Belgian driver back in Formula One and Soleco is pleased to be the first Belgian company to support Jerome on his journey. To underpin its international activities, Soleco Green Energy has found a perfect ambassador in Jerome and the Marussia Virgin Racing team. This partnership will help us to develop our international ambitions and Soleco will benefit from excellent strategic marketing opportunities. Jérôme is committed to offsetting his carbon emissions. To do so, Soleco will compensate his carbon footprint by investing in renewable energy projects and donating some of the returns to charity and the development of carbon neutral projects and products."