A restless wait in the wings begins for Esteban Ocon

Most people still can't wrap their head around the idea that Esteban Ocon won't be on the grid come Melbourne in March of next year.

Formula 1's odd state of affairs has left one of the sport's brightest talents on the sidelines, confined to a reserve role, albeit with the might Mercedes squad.

Barring any unforeseen turn of events, Ocon will enjoy only a handful of days behind the wheel of an F1 car in the next twelve months.

As Russian writer Tolstoy once wrote, "The two most powerful warriors are patience and time". And your time will come once again Esteban.

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.