Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Alonso reverts to 'Spec-2' Honda power unit

McLaren has changed the power unit on Fernando Alonso's MCL, reverting back to the 'Spec-2' Honda engine for the remainder of the Austrian Grand prix race weekend.

Both drivers were scheduled to use the new more powerful upgraded engine in Austria but an MGU-H issue detected on the Spaniard's unit prompted Honda to change back to the previous engine.

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The change will not entail a grid penalty for Alonso.

Honda F1 boss Yusuke Hasegawa had been satisfied with the performance of the 'Spec-3' unit which featured a new Internal Combustion engine, although the Japanese manufacturer still suffers from a substantial performance deficit compared to its rivals.

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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.