Ferrari now reaping the benefits of 2016 changes - Vettel

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Sebastian Vettel believes Ferrari's fortunes have vastly improved compared to last year, thanks largely to the structural changes the Scuderia initiated in 2016.

Ferrari gave Mercedes a run for its money in Barcelona, even beating the German outfit to the bragging rights as the fastest 2017 pre-season team.

The red squad, and Vettel in particular, aren't trumpeting the relatively insignificant feat however, aware of how Ferrari fell short of its own expectations last season. But progress is undoubtedly in the cards, as Vettel notes.

"We are better prepared than last year, we did more laps," he said in Barcelona.

"Overall the team is in a better shape. We learned a lot from last year, and I think last year was the most important year for us.

"Even if you look at the results you say it was not such a successful one, what happened in the background was really, really important to make a step forward, and hopefully we've done that."

Ferrari has matured one could say, an unexpected assessment for the oldest team in Formula 1 history.

"Last year we learned a lot of lessons, the whole organisation, the whole team I think has grown. I think it was the most important year.

"Obviously '15 was a great year to start for myself, for the team to restart the mission to win. '16 was a step back in terms of results, but I think a massive step forward in terms of organisation."

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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.