The class of 2017 bids farewell to Sepang

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Pretty much every driver on the F1 grid agrees that Sepang is a great and challenging track, which makes the sport's decision to drop Malaysia all the more unfortunate.

Fittingly, Formula 1's class of 2017 mounted the podium today during the pre-race celebrations to thank Sepang for its hospitality since 1999.

We'll bet that F1 will return to Malaysia some day...

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.