Marko praises F1's post-Ecclestone forward march

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Red Bull's Helmut Marko has hailed F1 and Liberty Media for the sport's step forward since the departure of former supremo Bernie Ecclestone.

As a prominent sponsor in Grand Prix racing and the owner of two teams, Red Bull has followed the sport's slow but sure transformation which has come into effect this season.

And like many in the F1 paddock, Marko, who guards the motorsport interests of the energy drinks company, liked like what he saw last weekend when Ferrari took the liberty of inviting a distraught young Kimi Raikkonen fan into the paddock for a 'meet and greet' with his favourite driver.

"There are new ideas from race to race," said Marko.

"We (Red Bull) have often had ideas that were not supported, but it's no longer about things imposed from above, but a cooperation to make the whole event more attractive."

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Helmut Marko looks upon F1 from privileged vantage point as the former F1 driver is also in charge of negotiating the Austrian Grand Prix with F1's commercial manager Sean Bratches, as Red Bull is the promoter of the showcase event held at the Red Bull Ring.

"We presented him with a list of ideas and within an hour all ten points were agreed," Marko said.

"It is a different atmosphere and mood, but at the same time there are also very intensive talks about new regulations on the technical side, the engine side, and the finance side."

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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.