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Renault test driver Nicholas Latifi gets RS17 outing

Canadian Formula 2 driver Nicholas Latifi will get his first taste of F1 power when he tests Renault's RS17 at this week's Pirelli development test taking place in Barcelona.

The 21-year-old, who joined Renault Sport Formula One Team last year as part of a long-term programme, will take to the Circuit de Catalunya track track on the second day of the test, Wednesday, after team race driver Jolyon Palmer drove on Tuesday.

"This is an exciting next step for Nicholas," said Renault Sport F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul.

"He will drive our current generation Formula 1 car at the same venue where the Spanish Grand Prix took place three days before.

"This will offer invaluable experience to him and is a crucial element to preparing Nicholas for other opportunities in the future.

"The test programme he will run for Pirelli relates to development for 2018 tyres so it’s an important duty he has too. We look forward to seeing Nicholas out in action on Wednesday."

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The young Canadian was equally enthusiastic with his F1 opportunity.

"I am extremely honoured to get this opportunity and I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the R.S.17 at the same venue I’ve just been racing in the FIA Formula 2 Championship.

"As Test Driver for the team I’ve completed a number of different aspects of my programme so far, but this is really something special.

"I’m looking forward to working with the team and Pirelli to deliver everything they require from the day."

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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.