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Wolff: 'We know why Hamilton is the best paid driver!'

As an insider to the thrilling world of Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff says the three-time world champion is really what F1 is all about.

Much has been made of Hamilton's jet set, rock-star lifestyle but while his boss acknowledges the sparkling coating on the outside, he also underscores the racing genius underneath.

"People dream if they think fashion shows are his main thing," Wolff said in an interview with iNews.

"He is not only the best racing driver at the moment but also that interesting personality. He gives the tabloids lots of stories.

"He provides narrative. In order to be glorified you need to provide drama and he gives them all of that. He is a media phenomenon as well as a very skilled racing driver."

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Wolff obviously looks beyond the glitzy persona, the tattoos and the accoutrements, to focus on what puts him really in awe of his driver: his talent.

"Seeing Lewis operate, and seeing him again this week (shakes head)," Wolff added.

"What I saw in the long runs was just the best of the whole week of testing. Just unbelievable, whatever that skill set is.

“Lewis is an exceptional individual and edgy person that when he operates on a high is unbeatable. When Lewis has that 100 per cent thing going on he is your man.

"These are the days when you know why he is in that car, and why he is the best paid driver."

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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.