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Lauda rubbishes Vettel to Mercedes claims!

Mercedes non-executive chairman Niki Lauda labeled claims that Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel has signed a pre-agreement with Mercedes for 2018 as 'bullsh*it'!

Speaking to SkySports F1 Damon Hill and Natalie Pinkham, the F1 legend was questioned about the rumors but was quick to shoot them down.

"All bullsh*it, if I may say that, Lauda said.

"I'm sorry, I'm very sorry, but it drives me crazy and I can tell you a reason you'll understand.

"A Ferrari driver, his head is for Ferrari, and the money in the end is also there.

"Why would Vettel leave Ferrari when he’s winning?"

Earlier this week, rumors had emerged that 'friends' of Niki Lauda had revealed that a deal between Vettel and Mercedes was all but signed and sealed.

Something obviously very wide of the mark for Niki Lauda.

Vettel admitted yesterday that he was somewhat at odds with his contractual situation at Ferrari, with no deal yet signed for 2017.

"It’s my first time in this situation where I don’t really know what happens next year, but I’m not too worried," Vettel said.

"I’m really focused on what’s going on right now, and that’s the same in the team from what I hear from people.

"There’s also other people in the team that don’t have a contract for next year, but they’re not worried! “We’re full on trying to focus on this year, trying to improve the car we have and fight with Mercedes."

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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.