Bernie praises Putin for Sochi success

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Bernie Ecclestone enjoyed a prominent presence and a front-row seat alongside President Valdimir Putin at last weekend's Russian Grand Prix at Sochi.

The 86-year-old 'chairman emeritus' of The Formula One Group, who paid his first 2017 visit to the F1 paddock in Bahrain, credited Putin for the success of the Sochi venue since its debut on the F1 calendar in 2014.

"I remember when I first came here and I was discouraged," Ecclestone said.

"I was not completely sure Russia would be able to build such a great track, but I relaxed after the guarantees given to me by Vladimir Putin.

"I know that your president only takes informed decisions.

"He will be remembered as a great president, who does a lot for his country and for world peace," Ecclestone said.

While obviously no longer involved in the event's future, Ecclestone did confirm however that F1's original idea of making the Russian GP a night race has been shelved.

"We had the idea but I don't know if it's worth it," said F1's former boss.

"The TV pictures from Sochi in the afternoon are wonderful and everything is organised at a very high level, so there's no need to change."

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.