Ecclestone delighted with Ferrari resurgence

Former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone was in Sochi last weekend, a venue he is particularly fond of since Russia appeared on the F1 calendar in 2014.

As Chairman Emeritus of The Formula One Group, the 86-year-old was offered a seat in the 'royal box' alongside F1 CEO Chase Carey and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Ecclestone, who was also present in Bahrain, is happy with the F1's new-spec cars, the changes he presided over last year and especially, the resurgence of Scuderia Ferrari.

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"I think Sebastian (Vettel) and Lewis (Hamilton) will continue to fight for first place," said Ecclestone.

"It will be a very interesting fight. This year, Ferrari is really back in the fight for the top places, and that's very good news.

"Fans were very tired of Mercedes' domination of recent years, and increased competition helps the promoters to sell more tickets," he added.

Gallery: All the action from Sunday in Sochi

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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.