Giovinazzi to replace Wehrlein again in China!

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Antonio Giovinazzi will once again sub for a still unfit Pascal Wehrlein at Sauber in next weekend's China Grand Prix.

Wehrlein withdrew from the Australian GP on Saturday morning before FP3, judging that his fitness level was not good enough to endure a full race distance.

Ferrari reserve driver Giovinazzi acquitted himself well, qualifying just behind team mate Marcus Ericsson and finishing the race 12th.

"For me the most important is that I can train intensively to ensure a 100% performance from my side as soon as possible," Wehrlein said in Sauber's China GP preview this afternoon.

"I will then be well-prepared for my first complete Grand Prix weekend for the Sauber F1 Team. Hopefully this can be in Bahrain but, if not, then we will take the time it needs until Russia to make sure I am completely ready."

If Wehrlein was deemed unfit to race in China, it's highly improbable that his fitness level will be adequate for Bahrain next week.

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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.