Claire Williams: 'Never sat at a table with Alonso!'

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Williams deputy-team principal Claire Williams denied any past or ongoing talks with Fernando Alonso regarding a seat with the Grove-based outfit in 2018.

Rumors emerged last week at Spa that Williams had approached and sounded out the Spanish driver about a possible seat with the Mercedes-powered team.

But the story was news to Claire Williams.

"I read that with astonishment," she told Germany's Bild.

"I know nothing about it. I never negotiated with him -- never sat at a table with him," she insisted.

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Williams also laughed off suggestions that billionaire Lawrence Stroll could possibly chip in and help pay Alonso's massive retainer, as having him in the team could prove beneficial to his son, Lance Stroll.

"Forget it," Claire Williams responded.

"Mr Stroll is a successful businessman because he does not throw money around like that."

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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.