Brawn wants "heroes" racing in Formula 1

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Ross Brawn, Formula 1's new managing director of sport, wants Grand Prix racing to return to an era when drivers were perceived as veritable heroes.

The Brit, who is now in charge of defining the future path of Formula 1, pointed to F1 legend and former protégé Michael Schumacher as the sort of emblematic figure he would like to see in the sport.

"Michael was a hero," the Briton told Germany's Sport Bild.

"But hero worship is no longer promoted," said Brawn, although he thinks that will change thanks to his bosses at Liberty Media.

"They come from a world of stars," he said.

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Drivers Brawn considers as potentially worthy of 'hero' status are Sebastian Vettel, because he drives for Ferrari, and the more rebellious Max Verstappen for his flamboyant and daring driving.

Speaking to Sport Bild, the 62-year-old engineer also believes it is necessary to put Germany back on the F1 calendar in the near future.

"We need the history in Formula 1, and Germany is part of that," he said.

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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.