Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsFormula 1

Monza officials not seeking "share" GP status

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Monza's historic status as a Grand Prix venue has come under threat lately with reports of commercial rights holder FOM holding out on renewing its contract with the iconic race track.

Bernie Ecclestone subsequently revealed he had held talks with representatives of Imola who have expressed their receptiveness to the idea of sharing the race with Monza in order to alleviate the financial burden on both circuits.

But the President of the Automobile Club Italia (ACI) Ivan Capelli labels the scheme an option of last resort as the ACI continues to work towards a definitive agreement with FOM.

"We respect others' work and projects, " the former Ferrari driver told website Pitpass. "Presently, we, ACI Milan and SIAS, are working hard to renew the contract with FOM which expires in 2016. Our goal is to keep the Italian GP in Monza and we can't help considering that in 2022 we will celebrate the centennial of the track."

Capelli was asked however about the principle of rotation and sharing the event with Imola.

"As of today we didn't get any official communication from Imola about such plans, " Capelli replied. Nevertheless, the rotation to which they make reference has always been a bad strategy. Therefore, what will be needed is a totally new approach in implementing this strategy, that frankly I can't see today. However, we are sportsman and the interest of the sport comes first in our minds. Should the rotation be the last possible resort, at that point we should at least consider it."

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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.