Sauber's new team boss? No clue, say the drivers

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Sauber has yet to announce who will replace former team boss Monisha Kaltenborn who left the team in the week leading to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

The Swiss outfit has apparently short-listed several indivuduals, including ex-Manor men Dave Ryan and Graeme Lowdon, ex-McLaren CEO Jost Capito and former Renault boss Frédéric Vasseur.

The latter appears to be the most probable choice at this stage, with the Frenchman seen visiting the team's Hinwill base two weeks ago.

Neither Pascal Wehrmein or Marcus Ericsson could offer any insight in to Sauber's choice or when it may be announced.

"Of course it’s different without a team boss, and Monisha especially," said Wehrlein.

"If there are some decisions to be made, Beat [Zehnder, team manager] or Jorg [Zander, technical director] will decide.

"It will be the same this weekend until we have the new team boss."

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Ericsson said he was also in the dark, and did not feel the need to get involved in the matter.

"As a driver it’s important for me to focus on my things," he said.

"What’s happening above me, I don’t gain anything putting energy or stuff into that.

"I was in the factory to have meetings with the engineers and the aero guys to focus on the things I am involved in and can make a difference in.

"Hopefully soon we have a new person in this position that can put their touch on the team. That would be great."

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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.