Sauber confirms Frederic Vasseur as new Team Principal

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As widely expected, Fred Vasseur has been appointed as the Sauber F1 Team's new team principal, taking over the role previously assumed by Monisha Kaltenborn.

Kaltenborn was ousted last month following a 'divergence of views' with Sauber's owners Longbow Financial SA.

"Frédéric Vasseur’s long and successful career in top level international motorsport speaks for itself, and we are thrilled to welcome him to Sauber," said Sauber Chairman Pascal Picci.

Vasseur, the co-founder of ART Grand Prix, headed Renault's return to F1 last year as a works outfit before leaving the French team following disagreemenst with Renault Sport F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul.

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"I’m very proud to be joining Sauber Motorsport AG, and wish to thank the company’s shareholders for their trust in me," said the French manager.

"I’ve been impressed by the facilities in Hinwil and by the talent and ambition of the workforce, and I very much look forward to complementing the team with my experience and determination and drive all people in the right direction in everything they do.

"I am convinced that all together we will achieve ambitious targets. I cannot wait to start working with our drivers, engineers and all the staff.

"I look forward to contributing to the next important phase in the development of the team."

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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.