Eddie Jordan: 'Vettel is talking to Mercedes'

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F1 pundit, Channel 4 commentator and predictor extraordinaire, Eddie Jordan has no doubts that Mercedes and Sebastian Vettel have initiated talks over 2018.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, who was seen in close conversation with the Ferrari driver last weekend, palyed down rumors of talks with the current championship leader.

"There's nothing to it," Wolff facetiously replied when asked about the encounter.

"I was only chatting with my Swiss neighbour."

But former team owner Jordan is adamant that talks are underway.

"Of course they're talking with Vettel," he told Sport Bild.

"They need to be. Formula 1 is a brutal business. It's not just about strengthening yourself, but weakening your opponent," he insisted.

Lauda doesn't see Alonso at Mercedes anytime soon

Niki Lauda has also discarded the Vettel rumours, he the F1 legend does admit that the German driver is impressive.

"He's the best at the moment," said Lauda.

"He is a straightforward guy who knows what he wants, knows how to get something and knows how to extract maximum performance.

"Just an incredible guy," 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.