Brawn extends a helping hand to Honda

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Formula 1's sporting boss Ross Brawn says that he has offered to help Honda in its attempts to improve its power unit performance.

Honda was put on notice by McLaren boss Zak Brown this week, with American executive stating that "something needs to change".

Dismal reliability and performance have prevented McLaren from extracting itself from the doldrums since it initiated its partnership with Honda in 2015.

The team's depressed state of affairs is approaching a point of no return with Honda, with Fernando Alonso adding extra pressure by delivering his own ultimatum.

"I have had some discussions with them to see if I can help them have any clarity on what they need to do for the future," said Brawn.

Honda committed to saving McLaren relationship

Brawn enjoys a close relationship with the Japanese manufacturer which goes back to when he took over Honda's F1 team in 2009 when it pulled out of Grand Prix racing following the world's economic woes.

"We value Honda as part of the sport," added the 62-year-old engineer.

"And if we can do anything to support their efforts to improve for the future we will do that."

Asked about Brawn's comments, Honda F1 boss Yusuke Hasegawa said that he respond to the offer if necessary.

"I appreciate his comments and I will ask him if we need his support," Hasegawa said.

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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.