Consider golf for a moment. If a professional is paid to endorse a particular brand of club, that's one thing. But if the same professional criticizes another brand without disclosing his ties to the first, that in IMO is deceit.

If you represent a product, just say so. I'll add my own grain of salt.

Having all the formula boats sail together, IMO, is fantastic. But, it's portsmouth racing. That sends some people into a rage. At least one person of my acquaintance has said he will quit the sport rather than race portsmouth. So, as with most things, there are both good and bad points.