Bernie back in the paddock in Bahrain!

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Bernie Ecclestone will be back in the F1 paddock next month in Bahrain, for his first appearance as Chairman Emeritus of The Formula One Group.

The former F1 supremo wasn't in Australia, as there was no reason for him to be there in addition to the fact that he's often skipped the long-haul venue in the past years.

But according to Germany's Auto, Motor und Sport, Bernie has accepted the formal invitation from Bahrain's Crown Prince to visit the third round of the 2017 F1 world championship.

A close friend of Ecclestone , His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa attended the 86-year-old's surprise farewell party, organised by Flavio Briatore in London recently.

Ecclestone: 'New F1 owners want to 'get rid of Bernie's history'

When asked in Melbourne what it was like to be at a Grand Prix with Ecclestone no longer running the show, Red Bull boss Christian Horner offered a mischievous reply: "How do you know he's not still in charge?

"I think in the role that he has, he's still going to be in a position to contribute," added Horner, referring to Ecclestone's new role as chairman emeritus.

"I'm sure he'll be at some forthcoming events and I think hopefully the new owners can use him constructively and beneficially to build on the good work that's already been done."

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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.