Ferrari releases Giovonazzi to Sauber for China

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Ferrari has released reserve driver Antonio Giovinazzi to Sauber for the upcoming China Grand Prix should the Swiss outfit require the young Italian's services.

According to Italy's La Gazetta dello Sport, the Scuderia was initially reluctant to do so.

Why ? Because letting Giovinazzi do more races for Sauber would make the 23-year-old hopeful ineligible for the 'young driver' tests scheduled for later this year.

Ferrari's intention was to run their reserve driver at these tests.

But given Pascal Wehrlein's fitness issues, and Giovinazzi's very good showing in Melbourne, having the young charger on hand in China has now become a necessity.

"That Giovinazzi will get another opportunity to drive for Sauber now becomes more real," said correspondent Andrea Cremonesi.

"Because Ferrari has decided to 'sacrifice' being able to use him in the tests after Bahrain."

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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.