Lauda sees no reason to change Mercedes driver line-up

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Mercedes non-executive chairman Niki Lauda believes the German outfit is perfectly served by the talent of its current drivers, and sees no changes in sight.

While there's obviously no discussion about Lewis Hamilton remaining at the Silver Arrows outfit, many still believe that Valtteri Bottas' one-year contract may not be renewed as both Sebastian Vettel and Fernando Alonso entre the driver market for 2018.

But Lauda told Germany's Bild am Sonntag that he sees no changes? Vettel is happy and competitive at Ferrari, while Alonso is "absolutely no topic", the Austrian insisted.

"We have two great drivers and no reason at all to change anything," Lauda added.
Asked when he will extend the Bottas deal, Lauda answered: "Now let's look at this for a while and then we'll see.

"But there is nothing at all stopping it."

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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.