Reigning 2008 FIA Formula One World Drivers' Champion, Lewis Hamilton, became one of the most pictured British sportsmen in the world when he became the youngest driver to win the title.

But none of the portraits of the 24-year old links him so completely to his sport as a portrait in oil, commissioned to kick off the UK's National Oil Check Week ? because the twist is that the oil used is Mobil 1 race oil taken directly from the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes car in which Lewis won last year's British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

Mobil 1 charged US artist David Macaluso with the creation of the picture of Lewis in typically triumphant pose. A limited run of 50 prints of the painting has also been made.

"I'm very impressed with the oil painting," Hamilton comments.

"I've always known that the Mobil 1 in my race car is an important component that can give us an edge over our rivals in some circumstances, but I'd never have guessed you could use it to paint with; the oil gives this picture a unique look and feel..."

Macaluso, an expert in the use of motor oil as a painting medium, said: "I've been recycling used motor oil into paintings since 2005, so it was exciting to do a portrait of Lewis, and it was a privilege. When people look at my portrait of Lewis Hamilton, I want them to know it contains the Mobil 1 that circulated inside his Mercedes-Benz engine.

"History was made by Hamilton with this oil, and to experience this painting is to be eye-to-eye with that history.

"We wanted to create something that celebrates Lewis' spectacular triumph but also highlights the vital role that Mobil 1 plays in the performance and protection of any engine."