Mansell doubts Mercedes has fallen back

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Nigel Mansell isn't buying Toto Wolff's claim that Mercedes is now the 'underdog' in its battle with arch-rival Ferrari.

The Mercedes boss recently said that after three years of utter dominance the German outfit had relinquished its role as the favourite to win the title.

But Mansell, who was inducted yesterday into Motor Sport Magazine's Hall of Fame, is skeptical of Wolff's assertion.

"That's rhetoric, I don't believe they're underdogs," the 1992 world champion told Reuters.

"I think they are very close. Ferrari has done an absolutely outstanding job through the winter to come out and challenge Mercedes like they have.

"But now it's going to be a race on development, whatever manufacturer develops at a faster rate will ultimately win the world championship," he added.

Wolff: 'It's painful, but we're not the favourites'

The Brit, who raced for the Scuderia in 1989 and 1990, is convinced the Silver Arrows remains a formidable force, as does Lewis Hamilton.

"What Lewis has got to do when things are not quite right is get the best he can possibly out of himself and the team.

"But Lewis still can win the championship this year, it's going to be very close between them."

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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.