More stunning claims from Eddie Jordan!

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Eddie Jordan just won't give up, the Channel 4 pundit sticking to his claim that Mercedes will pull out of Formula 1 at the end of the 2018 season.

The former team owner says that talks are already underway between the German manufacturer and The Formula One Group, the sport's commercial rights holder, to organise the manufacture's exit.

Mercedes has a commitment to remain in Grand Prix racing beyond 2018 but could leave if the entire team is sold, which Jordan is speculating will happen.

Jordan also said the Mercedes board of directors had agreed in principle to supply McLaren next season with its power unit.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff was quick to respond to EJ's latest fantasies however.

"Petronas is not leaving us, UBS is not leaving us. We're staying in F1!" insisted the Austrian manager.

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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.