Honda-FIA moral agreement forced Sauber supply deal

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Honda's decision to supply its power unit to Sauber next season is a departure from its exclusivity deal with McLaren, an arrangement originally negotiated by former boss Ron Dennis.

McLaren racing director Eric Boullier says the Woking-based outfit relinquished its exclusivity status as it knew that sooner or later, Honda would supply a second F1 team either through its own will or through the FIA's power to compel a manufacturer with the fewest customers to supply a team that needs an engine.

"We decided together," Boullier said.

"We did what we had to do. Ron had a very definite and clear position as he didn't want any distraction.

"But there was a moral agreement between Honda, the FIA and FOM and we knew that one day Honda had to look at other teams at the right time.

"But we got the reassurance that we had to get, so why not?" he added.

Sauber set to use McLaren gearbox in 2018

"For Sauber it is good, because it gives them access to a factory engine like Renault and Red Bull, for example."

But what good is having a factory engine if it proves unreliable and non performing, one could ask?

Sauber is obviously banking on a miraculous resurgence of the Japanese manufacturer which, if it indeed does occur, could effectively reap huge benefits for the Swiss outfit.

But that's a big 'if'...

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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.