Chief engine designer Lorenzo Sassi leaves Ferrari

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It is being reported by Italian paper Il Giornale that Ferrari's chief engine designer Lorenzo Sassi has left the team on direct order from President Sergio Marchionne.

The departure, which has not been officially confirmed by the Scuderia, apparently occurred earlier this week.

The move is considered as a surprise given the progress accomplished this season by Ferrari on its power unit front.

But reports are also suggesting that Marchionne may have moved Sassi to Ferrari's road-car division in order to bolster its engine department, with the engineer's expertise held in high regard by the Italian manufacturer's boss.

The team is also scheduled to introduce a major engine upgrade at the British Grand Prix next week, which should provide the team's SF70H with an extra boost of performance.

Questioned by a reporter at today's media conference in Austria, Sebastian Vettel feigned to ignore the news.

"I don't know what you are referring to," he said. "It is better you ask a little bit higher up."

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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.