McLaren drivers get Honda component update for Sochi

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Honda will introduce a modified MGU-H component on its power unit for next weekend's Russian Grand Prix at Sochi.

Following multiple failures at Bahrain which dogged the races of both Fernando Alonso and Stoffel Vandoorne - the Belgian failing to even start the event - Honda has changed the MGU-H in order to improve its reliability.

The modification also means a fourth MGU-H component for Vandoorne this year, with any subsequent failure therefore leading to a grid penalty for the McLaren rookie.

"After a disappointing grand prix weekend in Bahrain, we have since had an extremely busy few days during in-season testing," said Honda chief Yusuke Hasegawa.

"The team has been working hard to implement some countermeasures to help combat our MGU-H issues.

"By the second day of testing, we think we were able to confirm the direction of our solution against the issue after completing 81 laps with Stoffel behind the wheel."

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While McLaren languishes for a trouble-free weekend, race director Eric Boullier insists the only thing the team can do is optimize the procedures which it controls.

"Honda are working hard to find solutions to the MGU-H issue we have been suffering with," Boullier said.

"On the McLaren side it's important we make sure all of our operational processes and procedures are bulletproof all the way down the line, so that we can at least see the chequered flag with both cars."

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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.