Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsMcLaren

Alonso future bright at McLaren insists Briatore

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Flavio Briatore still believes Fernando Alonso's move from Ferrari to McLaren was in the Spaniard's best interests, and insists the future is bright with Honda.

With Alonso enduring a miserable season so far as McLaren attempts to extricate itself from the doldrums along with its engine partner Honda, many believe a departure from Maranello after his five-year spell was one of the most ill-advised decisions ever on the part of Alonso, especially given the Scuderia's increase in performance this year, but Briatore strongly disagrees.

"I believe at one point at Ferrari it was over, from both sides. I believe it was a good change," Briatore told Reuters. "McLaren is a serious team. Honda we know is a great company and we are there. Fernando is happy to be staying at McLaren now."

The flamboyant Italian, who still manages Alonso's career, also downplayed Ferrari's impressive performance level compared to last season.

"In Formula One at the moment you have one team and it's Mercedes. Whatever other team you are second, and second is the first of the losers. Between Ferrari and Mercedes it is the same distance. The problem is three or four teams are not there anymore. With Honda and McLaren, we have a better future."

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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.