Sauber's Kaltenborn puts forward franchise idea for F1

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Sauber boss Monisha Kaltenborn is advocating for a franchise system to govern teams' involvement in F1, believing the concept would alleviate financial fears for mid-field teams.

Kaltenborn says that organizing the sport around a franchise system, a fairly widespread approach in major US sports, would go a long way towards helping smaller outfits who do not enjoy the benefit of manufacturer backing.

"I think it makes sense to have that kind of a system," Kaltenbor told GP Gazette.

"For me the most important thing is that the value of the sport and the value of each team is improved.

"Because we do ideally want to be in a world where it takes a lot to come in, but then, when you are in, you have a certain income and a certain existence, maybe not guaranteed - that is too strong a word - but given.

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"You don't have to fear that you won't be able to exist at this level, because the sport is giving you enough income to have a business that works.

"You don't need to have a huge profit, but one that allows you to be competitive in the sport. Maybe not for the top three, but, if you are among 10, in the midfield.

"So that's the idea behind this and that's something very good for the sport.

"If we do that kind of a franchise system, I think it's important that the brands which are in the sport are preserved - because that again adds value to your franchise."

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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.