Lauda: No risk of Mercedes leaving F1 for Formula E

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Mercedes F1 non-executive chairman Niki Lauda has scrapped rumors of that Mercedes' potential involvement in Formula E could lead to a pull-out from F1.

The burgeoning all-electric international series has attracted interest and involvement from several manufacturers, and Mercedes holds an option to enter FE in season five.

According to the option agreement, Mercedes may choose to be one of the maximum of 12 entries to be proposed by the championship promoter to the FIA to enter from the 2018/19 season.

Formula E a 'necessity' for Ferrari - Marchionne

As F1 starts the process of planning for the new engine rules beyond 2020, the German manufacturer's interest in FE is fueling rumors that it could jump ship.

But Lauda denied the silly stories.

"We did it for strategic reasons," he said, justifying Mercedes' association with Formula E.

"But we will continue to be in Formula 1. It (Formula E) is not under discussion for us as an alternative to F1," he added.

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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.